"We've intentionally kept ourselves from being any kind of artistic or stylistic censors. We literally take everything that we can," says Kaveh Razani, founder of hybrid venue Blank Space. The venue, which first began as an open-ended art project, has evolved into a bar that serves art and music in tandem -- a confluence of culture for local artists and musicians alike. Following the recent acquisition of the building located at 2847 Cherokee Street, the venue is moving forward with major construction and renovation plans.
"For the first six weeks, it was like a summer camp sort of thing," Razani says, recalling the days before the venue even had a name. "Nothing was set in stone. We were just squatting in this building we had rented, making art, cutting up furniture." He and his team started their lease on January 1, 2012.
See also: Blank Space Turns Two; Major Renovations Coming Soon
Within two months, Blank Space had its first inspection for occupancy. Razani worked through the following twelve weeks and successfully passed. And although the project wasn't to be bound by any specific set of rules, he knew that this would be a place for people to gather.
"The point was to allow the people we associated with and the people that walked by every day to come in and envision the space, and help make it real. From the beginning, the point was to be community directed," Razani says.
"On any given day there are ten to fifteen people that make Blank Space what it is," Razani explains. "There are people who have, in my opinion, more responsibilities here than me. For the first year and a half, there were less than five. At some points there were just two people running the place."
On the main level, a mid-size bar serving beer and cocktails is surrounded by walls of art. Beat poetry and public showings of locally sourced video happen on this floor, while dance parties with live DJs populate both levels.
In 2014, Blank Space is a home for hip-hop, punk rock, noise and other music that might otherwise be marginalized due to its lack of earning potential. Shows typically take place in the basement, and artists perform at eye level with concertgoers -- one benefit of a smaller, more intimate space. The walls are painted black, and subtle lights hang from the ceiling, giving off a cavelike vibe.
Events such as concerts, art shows and poetry readings are booked through Blank Space's email address ([email protected]), and if the date is open, Razani and company typically approve. That means a brand-new band can get in the door regardless of experience, genre, age or race. While diversity is key, the staff doesn't overtly enforce specific styles -- the doors are open, regardless of who comes knocking.
Continue to page two.
