Arts studio searching for replacement
CALIFORNIA – The owners of Jozart Studios are looking for a nonprofit group, art club or other interested parties that would like to take over the operation of the 10-year-old center for the arts. The large open space on the second floor of 333 Second St. has hosted open mike events every Wednesday night. It has also provided studio space for artists, space for writers’ workshops, theater workshops and children’s workshops in the arts, according to Joe “Bish” Morosky, who has run the studio along with Jay Paroda for 10 years.
“Things just evolved,” Morosky said.
Morosky said that while he and Paroda can’t keep the facility going themselves, they would like to see it remain in the community as a center for the arts.
“It’s already set up for that sort of thing. We’re hoping some type of nonprofit can come in and take it over,” Morosky said.
Morosky said it takes about $1,400 a month to cover the rent and all of the utilities. He and Paroda have taken on small printing jobs to help meet the bills, but they also both have full-time jobs and aren’t able to be at the studio as often as they would like.
“There should be workshops going on and people using it to make art,” Morosky said. “It’s a great space for the arts.”
Morosky said the space could be as successful as WashArts in Washington, Pa., or the Butler Arts program, which offer art classes and hold shows of local art.
“I think there’s potential if you have the right people with the initiative and if they have the time. If we can get a nonprofit going, I’d like to be on the board and stay involved,” Morosky said. “We do want to see the place survive for the arts. I’d hate to see it go for apartments.”
A public meeting is being held tonight at 5:30 at Jozart Studios for anyone interested in the future of the facility.