A studio and gallery for area artists is likely coming to a building next to the Bethesda Metro station, thanks to a deal the developer worked out with the Bethesda Urban Partnership and Montgomery County Planning Department.
Brookfield Office Properties will supply BUP with 1,200 square feet of vacant retail space in its Bethesda Crescent building (7475 Wisconsin Ave.) for art studios and exhibition space to make up for a renovated lobby that will do away with three commissioned pieces of art.
Under terms of an agreement that will go before the Planning Board next week, the developer will also give BUP a financial contribution of $23,000 as reimbursement for lighting upgrades in the Bethesda Metro tunnel that also includes BUP’s “Art Under the Avenue” exhibit.
The deal also includes a $3,500 contribution to sponsor “Art Under the Avenue” and free rent for the art studio for 10 years.
Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center Director Ken Hartman said the new studio will act as a “mini Torpedo Factory,” referring to the popular studio, gallery and workshop facility in Alexandria, Va.
Specific plans for how the new studio will be set up are being finalized. The Planning Board is expected to approve the deal, as recommended by Planning Department staff.
Photos via Bethesda Urban Partnership and Montgomery County Planning Department
