Alfstad& Productions Lease Old Ice House for Art Exhibition Space

Historic Building to Be Renamed “The Ice House” and  Developed Into an Art and Exhibition Space

Sarasota, FL, September 13, 2013: Alfstad& Productions has signed a lease on The Old Ice House building at 1314 10th Street in Sarasota’s historic Rosemary District. The 8,900 square-foot facility will be the art production company’s second location, having begun operations in the Alfstad& Productions studio at 1421 5th Street earlier in 2013. The property is owned and managed by local area-resident and businessman Ross Mercier.
  Using a combination of digital technologies and traditional techniques, and in collaboration with artists in Sarasota and around the country, Alfstad& Productions creates contemporary art. As a part of marketing the art, the group plans to produce multidimensional art exhibitions.

"Finding the right location was a critical step in our development process,” says Sam Alfstad.  “The vast raw space offers unlimited possibilities and is unique to Sarasota. We envision creating a quality ‘White Cube’ multi-purpose exhibition space that will become the contemporary art destination of choice. That’s why we are rebranding Old Ice House -- renaming it simply 'The Ice House.'"

“I am pleased to have Alfstad& Productions as our sole tenant,” says Ross Mercier. “Sam’s plans for this space coincide with my thinking. For some time now I have a believed in this location and how it could develop to include the art scene in Sarasota. It’s conveniently located in the Rosemary District, has easy in-and-out access and it’s only two blocks off of Tamiami Trail – turn one way and go to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, turn the other way and come to the Ice House.”

Both Sam and Ross see the area around the property developing along the lines of New York City’s once neglected SoHo neighborhood, which was ultimately transformed by artists, patrons and renewed activity into an art and cultural hub.

“This is another positive step in the development of the Rosemary District,” adds Michael Bush, president of the Rosemary District Neighborhood Association. “As more art-related businesses settle into this area, creative individuals and small businesses can contribute and experience the best that Sarasota offers. That’s a win-win for everyone in Sarasota.”

Alfstad& Productions is currently in discussions with a number of Sarasota arts, performance and civic groups to stage various exhibitions, events and gallery shows. The first event will soon be announced.

“We are excited about the potential of the Ice House,” says Casey Alfstad, a member of the younger generation of artists in Sarasota. “The Ice House is cool, you know? And once other artists in Sarasota see the space – they are going to agree.”

Alfstad& Productions is located at 1421 5th Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. Its staff currently includes three Ringling School of Art and Design graduates and a number of local artists and craftspeople.

About Alfstad& Productions:
Founded in 2013 and located in the historic Rosemary District of Sarasota, Florida, Alfstad& is exploring new ways to produce art, collaborate with artists and promote multidimensional art exhibitions. Our goal is to reimagine how to make and market art, and—in the process—create an art brand recognized worldwide.

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Contact:
Gary Galati
gary@alfstadand.com
cell 347-804-1526
main 941-366-6400
1421 5th Street
Sarasota, FL 34236

http://www.alfstadand.com
Twitter: @alfstadand
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