The Artist Central Exchange (A.C.E.) is an Artists Co-Op and Community Events Center located in Chicago’s neighborhood of Andersonville.
As the old saying goes: ...the more things change the more they stay the same...
Strictly Locals began as an idea of Artist Elie Ortiz, Jr. and became a reality through an effort of a small group of individuals, committed artists and business people alike. The idea grew from a variation on a theme, that of artists’ subletting space in a gallery/retail environment in order to showcase their art and to be part of an entity to further artistic endeavors. The group, lead by Ortiz, elevated the concept to a living and breathing artists’ exchange catering to not only local artists, but to local businesses and moreover the community at large. Artists’ rented wall space, jewelry cases, shelf space and just plain floor space. The physical space complete with DJ booth, convertible work areas and open meeting space (all built and designed by Elie Ortiz, Jr) began welcoming events and classes including: Bottles and Brushes, Comedy Nights, Yoga, Charitable events, Art fairs, various private functions and the like.
While all moved forward, the business functions of the operations required a significant amount of attention and resources that weighed heavily on those involved. As a result, Elie Ortiz, Jr. felt the demands did not meld with his original hopes for the operation and despite the contrary desires of the business partners and the great majority of artist members, on March 1, 2011 Ortiz decide that he needed to retire himself and Strictly Locals.
Artist Central Exchange or simply Artist Central or even The “ACE” , continues where Strictly Locals left off. Same location, still a growing idea and a commitment to bringing together community via an Artistically Centered approach. John Burks continues the job of developing the concept and finding creative ways to fill and utilize the space, but now adds the responsibility of managing operations. The functions of ACE are being expanded to include the artist partners as a more integral part of day to day operations. In short, John is relying more on the artist members for true time commitment and labor, when and where they can provide it, and the artist members are heading the call.
2011 will be a year where ACE will find its voice and place in the Chicago arts culture. We hope that you will make sure to be part of what will prove to be a successful endeavor.
