JuxtaHub — Local services in Emmaus

I’ve been an artist working in the valley for many years and have come to believe that those who truly support the creative sector and believe that our fellow citizens deserve the best arts and culture in the world must fight to build and preserve what is here already and what is being built for the future. Juxtahub is part of that future. They are a young organization who are learning what it takes to survive in order to then nurture the arts community in Emmaus and the Lehigh Valley. In their first steps they have stumbled at times but they have already done the most courageous act, the showed up and tried in the first place. The valley is full of culture vultures, professionals, progressives, art lovers and others who bemoan the sometimes scant offerings in the valley and pack up their cars to go to New York or Philly yet won’t support local arts organizations or buy local art. How dare anyone air dirty laundry as a previous reviewer did and from what is an apparent inside source for an organization barely open 6 months and then hide behind a pseudonym, stand up and be counted if your so perturbed and so dedicated in protecting the public trust. What a coward. My name is Anthony Smith and I’m proud to be a Juxtahub artist Studio 236! Juxtahub is to be commended for trying in a difficult sector and in dark times. Their success or failure depends on several factors some that they have control over and some they do not but what they have impressively done is focus on their artists first. And if they fail I’ll be proud that I put my lot in with them and moved my studio there when it would have been far cheaper to go to my basement instead of complain as so many do about what’s not going right, expecting an organization to stick the landing on the first try. They opened early and before they were fully ready to rescue me and several stranded artists when the Banana Factory closed. From that small cohort of nomad artists they added a dozen other outstanding artists from throughout the valley and have fiercely championed our works in studio visits, social media support, business advice, art sales and collecting, and authentic concern for our careers and artistry. The organization has much to learn but is open to change and growth, though I acknowledge their movements have been too tepid at times. But as this is supposed to be an accurate review to the public of this organization as an artist who spends on average 60 hours in the building a week I think that for its overall youth as an organization - again barely 6 months - and by showing the intelligence to lead with bringing on a contingent of spectacular artists for what will ultimately be a multifaceted creative and technological outfit, a blend that will be a real first for our area, Juxtahub deserves praise and I highly recommend the public’s participation and support. I say that as a participant with real skin in the game and real risk and not an ax to grind or with a vendetta. I’m proud to put my name to this venture and have risked my art practice as a show of support. I haven’t hid behind a pseudonym and advise those who would speak for artists that work at Juxtahub to buy our works if you have doubts and show us support we can cash in the bank instead of making pathetic attempts to poison our well of potential support . That’ll show real support and not lip service masquerading as noble protection of not for profit status which ultimately hurts vulnerable artists who are already onsite. Also how about practicing some grace and work for this organizations success, organizations are made of people, they make mistakes. Bottom line is the leaders of this baby-organization have their hearts in the right place and thank god for it. Look I’m a fierce critique of issues I see at Juxtahub and one way or another they will all be addressed but I understand Rome wasn’t built in a day and I applaud any organization brave enough in this political climate to bet on art and artists. Come to Juxtahub and be a part of the solution, support...

I've attended the last three Juxta-Tuesday events and have been absolutely amazed by each experience! A friend first brought me, and I've enjoyed it so much that I've brought a new friend each time since.

What makes Juxtahub special is the opportunity to speak directly with the artists about their work and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. The sense of community is wonderful, and I haven't even had a chance to take classes yet – though I'm eagerly looking forward to it!

The talent here is incredible, with so many artists to discover that it's impossible to list them all. Two who particularly stood out were Rhiannon Davis, whose pottery work is extraordinary, and Pam Gontram, an immaculate mosaic artist. Pam was so gracious when we admired her work that she offered to arrange a small group session with us and others, and then took our contact information.

I can't wait to keep returning to future Juxtahub events and to finally sign up for some classes. Juxtahub has become a true highlight for me...

A wonderful addition to the Arts community!

JuxtaHub is a unique arts and innovation center designed to help people of all ages create, learn, and share creative experiences. It’s full of classrooms, art studios, and eventually will have a performing arts theater.

Open to the public from 6pm-8pm the second Tuesday of each month, for Open Studios.

Come and explore all this place has to offer. They are in the process of adding classes and workshops in multiple areas and disciplines; from virtual reality, to music, ceramics, painting, drawing and woodworking.

Check their website for updates and more info.

Whether you’re a creator, maker, teacher or student you’ll find something new, fun, and...