Creative City Hop: ArtCube HQ is Moving to Savannah

Freelance creatives and small business owners know sometimes we need to make bold moves to thrive and grow. That’s why I’m excited to announce that ArtCube HQ is relocating to Savannah, GA, on July 1st.

Why Savannah?

Savannah is a Creative City offering a vibrant and supportive learning and living environment.  It’s a place where creativity thrives with funky neighborhoods, cobblestone streets, and historical architecture making it the perfect spot for our headquarters.

Little known fact: I founded Film Biz Recycling in New York City and it was transferred to Samita Wolfe, a set decorator in  #local491 in Savannah when we had to close our NYC doors in 2015.  The non-profit prop house and reuse center continues the mission to serve the citizens and film industry as the only prop house in Savannah, Georgia and we will support Samita in any way we can!

On a personal note, this move allows me to be closer to it and my SCAD/ATL-bound offspring.  He’s studying animation in Atlanta, so this just felt right.

The move to Savannah symbolizes a full-circle moment—returning to a place where the spirit of sustainability, public service, and a circular economy.

The SCAD Factor

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has a significant influence on the creative landscape of Savannah. Known globally for its rigorous programs and exceptional alumni, SCAD infuses the city with fresh ideas and artistic energy. This academic powerhouse not only nurtures creativity locally but also spreads its influence worldwide, making Savannah a hub for innovative thinkers and artists.

Our proximity to SCAD will enable us to forge stronger connections with its talented students and faculty, fostering collaborations that will benefit both ArtCube and the wider creative community.  We have former members of ArtCube who are Faculty at SCAD now!  That is so cool. 

NYC vs. Savannah: A Tale of Two Creative Cities

Moving from New York City to Savannah is a significant change, but both cities offer unique benefits for creatives.  I also work at home so my focus will not change – just where I keep my stuff.

Similarities:

• Vibrant Creative Scenes: Both NYC and Savannah are renowned for their bustling arts communities. Each city hosts numerous galleries, studios, and events that draw creatives from all over the world.
• Diverse Talent Pools: NYC and Savannah attract a wide range of artists, designers, and innovators, making them rich in new opportunities.
• Historical Significance: Both cities have rich histories that contribute to their cultural landscapes. NYC is known for its long-standing influence in art and design, while Savannah boasts beautiful historic architecture.
• Haunted Hotels: Storied pasts leave freaky remains in the energy sphere.

Differences:

• Cost of Living: Savannah’s lower cost of living is a significant draw for many creatives. It allows for a higher quality of life and more flexibility in pursuing artistic endeavors.
• Pace of Life: NYC’s fast-paced environment is thrilling but can be overwhelming. Savannah offers a more relaxed atmosphere, is near the ocean, and provides a balance between stress-free days and  productivity I need as a solopreneur.
• Community Feel: Savannah’s smaller size fosters a tight-knit community where relationships are easier to build and maintain. 

Exciting New Features Coming Soon

As you know, I’m passionate about SEO and continuously tinker with the Cube’s SEO to draw the right members,. Here are some features we plan to roll out in the next six months:

• Vendor Directory: A searchable and filterable directory by specialty, equipment, and more.
• Enhanced Marketplace: Improved rental and inventory management on your profile.
• Bid Requests: Targeted requests sent only to genuine fabrication shops.
• Discussion rooms for all Cubers no matter what city they live in.

Staying Connected, I love New York. I love ArtCube more.

Though our base will be in Savannah, my heart remains in NYC. I’ll be commuting regularly for Art DeParties and meetings—it’s just a short flight away!

Wait, the Freelance Membership Fee Increases $5 7/1?

To continue offering top-notch services and support, we’ve had to increase the professional membership fee. This is our first hike since ArtCube 1.0 launched in 2015. The new fee breakdown is only 17¢ a day, and it ensures we can maintain and grow our complex, tech-heavy platform. This is for freelancers and businesses are next once some key features are established.

A Heartfelt Thank You

This decision wasn’t easy, but it’s a necessary step to keep ArtCube thriving. Your support and understanding are invaluable as we embark on this new chapter. Together, we’ll continue to build an amazing community for creative freelancers and businesses.

Here’s to new beginnings and endless creative opportunities in Savannah that will serve all Creative Cities EVERYWHERE.

Eva RadkeFounder, ArtCube Nation