VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Your own workspace and a chance to help get yourself marketed locally, nationally and even across the world at no charge. That's the chance 2050 Community and its founder Stefanie Mitchell are looking to give several local artists.
"We're looking for people that maybe need help transforming into the digital culture, where everything is changing so fast,” Mitchell told News 3.
2050 Community is an online global-arts community that connects artists, brands and influencers from international regions with new markets and communities. It helps artists connect, create and collaborate.
Mitchell has a technological background, and that's part of why she says she wants to help artists get adapted to a world going digital.
"I don't want to live in a society where we have all of this advanced tech but people are suffering,” she said.
The pandemic is another reason she's beginning 2050 Community.
"The gallery scene and the entertainment show-scene are shuttering, everything is online now,” Mitchell said. “Everyone is saying, 'Hey, how do I paint and have this time to set up this entire virtual platform where I can promote myself?'"
She is specifically looking for artists ages 21 to 40 and those who have little to no access to professional resources.
It's also not just traditional artists the organization is looking for.
"I want MCs, DJs, people working in fashion,” Mitchell said.
2050 Community is located next to the ViBe Creative District where lots of artists have had the chance to showcase their talent by painting murals and other projects in the neighborhood. The studio is also located next to the Oceanfront resort area.
Selected residents will live inside the studio and reside on the first floor. There is also the second floor, where the artists will have a chance to work.
The studio’s first floor is decked with items from her international travels where Mitchell made connections along the way. She added those connections will help residents in marketing themselves.
"There's been too much focus on tech, products, and ideas,” Mitchell explained. “[There hasn't been] too much focus on human capital."
Interested artists need to apply. Mitchell said they have received a number of applications so far. There is no deadline at the moment and the number of selected residents is limited. Applicants must also have their own supplies, such as paint and other materials used.
