Collinwood Rising - January

The ongoing series of ArtPlace-related interviews with our Executive Director, Brian A. Friedman, continues with the following summary from January.

ARTPLACE:  WHAT IS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU’VE TAKEN IN YOUR EFFORTS?  HOW DID YOU GET BURNED, OR HOW DID YOU PREVAIL?

I believe that one of the riskiest parts of the job is partnering with organizations or artists on projects that may fall through the cracks or will not come to fruition.

For example, we were contacted by an artist who was interested in renting property from Northeast Shores to develop a mixed-use artist complex. Northeast Shores worked diligently with the artist to make that a reality and felt that it would be an exciting opportunity and a welcomed addition to the Waterloo Arts and Entertainment District. A considerable amount of resources were used and time was spent on correspondence, touring the property, creating work specifications and drafting paperwork concerning development and preparations to the property.  In addition, the artist actively advertised the impending project.  Midway through the planning process, the artist decided to withdraw due to an unrelated career opportunity. Unfortunately, the artist complex project did not come to fruition. Investing time and resources on a failed project can be a tremendous disappointment to both sides.

However, the void was quickly filled when Cindy Barber, owner of the Beachland Ballroom, came to us with an idea for a different project. This project would involve a newly formed nonprofit organization called Cleveland Rocks: Past, Present and Future. The mission would involve supporting and preserving Cleveland’s popular music.  In addition, Cleveland Rocks would also promote and grow Cleveland’s music economy by building on the presence of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum. Of course, the most important part is the planning process.  We have met with Ms. Barber to discuss her plans and efforts have been made to obtain and develop property for Cleveland Rocks.  This new project will bring about an invigorating rebirth of the Waterloo area.

There is always going to be some element of risk when working in community development. No matter what you’re doing, no matter how stable, there’s always a chance that something will go wrong. Taking risks can help you expand your horizons and learn new things. Ultimately, how much risk you’re willing to take depends on you. I believe that persistence and resiliency leads to success.  Projects will fall through and you may have to take a few detours, but if you believe in the power of ideas and maintain faith in the neighborhood, the business owners and its residents, situations will eventually work out.