LAKELAND, Fla. — Lakeland's art scene is about to take what some see as a major hit.
Artifact Studios, a unique space where artists have developed their skills and creativity for years, is closing its doors.
For the past few years, a refurbished, revitalized warehouse near downtown Lakeland has been the home to the studio.
Some see it as an art incubator where local artists craft their skills and put their creativity on display.
“By no means, we're not celebrating the end of that landlord tenant relationship,” said Brian Rewis, Lakeland’s Director of Community and Economic Development.
There had been some contradiction about what's behind the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency’s decision to evict Artifact.
Artifact Studios first announced the closure on its social media page saying the property had been sold, but the CRA says that's not the case. Rather, the studio, they say, had failed to pay rent since March 2024 with an overdue balance of over $10,000.
“And so, began to talk about whether they would be able to sustain sort of their tenancy there long-term,” Rewis said. “And those discussions arrived at what was ultimately a mutual decision to terminate the lease.”
Rewis says part of that agreement includes forgiving the non-profit’s past-due rent.
Many in the community also see the closure as a loss for Lakeland, which prides itself on its artistic scenery.
“I'm sympathetic, and obviously I want to encourage local artist and vendors to do their thing,” said Angela Mosier, who also has a business of her own in Lakeland. “But part of being a business owner is you have to pay your rent. And there's consequences when you don't. Unfortunately.”
At last count, Artifact Studios was home to about 19 artists, some of whom share the space with other creative minds in the area.
Artifact's director says several of its tenants rely on the space to make a living. Some have said they'll make a personal appeal to the city council. But unless something changes, the artist will have to find new space someplace else by this time next month.