"The Space Where Art Lives"
The Ground Floor Gallery at Read's is a private arts space located on the first floor of Read's Artspace Lofts, a redeveloped live/work artist community based in Downtown Bridgeport. We're open on an event or by appointment basis.
When it opened in 1925, Read’s was regarded as one of the largest department stores in New England where it’s expansive five stories and green awnings stood as emblems of commerce. But as the city fell on hard economic times, the building finally shut its doors in 1981.
While the retail atmosphere was gone this urban landmark was preserved and the building was renovated with a creative spirit in mind. Partnering with Artspace USA, who’s mission is to “create, foster, and preserve affordable space for artists and arts organizations” the once department store became live/work spaces for 61 loft style units to house artists.
