I was recently notified of Riverside Industries’ rent increase at One Cottage Street. I have been practicing martial arts at Heron’s Bridge Dojo at Cottage Street Studios for 10 years and will be directly affected by this. A deep-rooted community has developed in this space with many artists coming from other cities, states and even countries. I believe my practice would not be the same without this welcoming space and environment that has existed for decades. Without creative spaces like One Cottage Street Studios, community building comes to a halt. I am a young artist with 20 years of professional experience and strive to find spaces where art can thrive and be shared with others. Easthampton is a town where art is meant to thrive; a town that has gained its wealth from embracing the arts. I have lived in places where art was lacking and with that lack of creativity comes a lack of community. When I remember living in a community without art, I can completely understand why I left. I longed for something more. If One Cottage Street falls, it will be the first domino with an even greater impact. The higher rents will cause many artists to move away, which will reduce the economic stimulation. Riverside Industries needs to understand the impact artists have on the community, the wealth they bring, and that without them there will be a great loss of vitality in Easthampton.
Isabelle Casavant
Northampton
