Spotlight: East Creative Collective

East Creative Collective is a dynamic hub of cutting-edge creativity. Located in Portland’s Central Eastside district, the collective is home to more than 30 artists and offers an unparalleled experience for art patrons and art seekers alike. Join them this Friday, July 3, for the First Friday Open Studio from 6 - 9 pm at 211 SE Madison St., Portland OR. There will also be a bonus open studio day on Saturday, July 4, at the same time.

Below, one of the collective’s artists, Shea, shares more about the group.

How do you feel Portland shapes or influences your business or work?

Shea: We live, work, and play in Portland. We are Portlanders, who are inspired by the people and scenes around us, and we strive in our creative work to keep Portland weird, and thriving.

What role does the community play in your business?

Shea: We would be lost without the community at large. We host monthly First Friday open studio events, bringing together artists and community members to share, enjoy, and make art together.

What has been your biggest success?

Shea: Transforming warehouse space into low income art studios. Bringing in people for First Friday. Before COVID, we regularly had over 500 visitors each month.

What has been your biggest challenge?

Shea: Building momentum back up post-COVID, and connecting with like-minded groups and businesses in the Central Eastside to promote and support the arts and artists.