New Creative Hub Opens in Knoxville: Corte-Land Art House
Knoxville is buzzing with excitement over the recent opening of the Corte-Land Art House at 503 Clinch Ave.. This fresh space focuses on supporting local artists and fostering creativity, providing a unique venue for artists of various disciplines. The idea for this creative center has been in the works for a decade, founded by Kami Astro, a music producer and audio engineer who has made Knoxville his home since 2017.
A Vision Realized
Kami moved to Knoxville, drawn by the opportunities within a growing television industry. However, as he became more involved in the community, particularly through social justice initiatives and cultural arts, he recognized a pressing need for a space that artists could use as a safe and inviting environment for collaboration.
After years of planning, Corte-Land Art House officially opened its doors in July 2024. The venue serves as a hub for networking, showcasing local art, and organizing community-building events like workshops and concerts. The design is modular, allowing it to accommodate both visual and musical arts, making it a versatile space for creativity to thrive.
Honoring a Legacy
The name Corte-Land is a tribute to Kami’s late brother, Cortez, who passed away due to gun violence in Chicago. Esteeming his brother’s encouragement, Kami hopes to create an environment where artists are seen, respected, and provided with the resources they need to flourish.
Kami shared, “I want to continue my brother’s legacy of believing in others, especially those who may doubt themselves. I aim for the space to exude professionalism and dignity for the artists who use it.”
A Unique Space for Artists
One of the standout aspects of Corte-Land Art House is its alcohol-free policy, which responds to a significant request from the local artist community. Many artists in Knoxville highlighted the need for a venue that focuses on creative processes rather than simply hosting performances.
The establishment features a private production and recording studio on the lower level, outfitted to support various artistic endeavors, including band practices, podcast recordings, and live streaming. Kami intends for the venue to facilitate healthy skill-sharing between artists and professionals, enhancing the overall artistic climate in the city.
Community Involvement
In addition to serving artists, Corte-Land Art House also supports local businesses. Amanda Hale, the retail manager and owner of Raisin’ Hale Vintage, spoke about her journey starting a vintage business after losing her job during the pandemic. At Corte-Land, she sells her handpicked vintage finds sourced from estate sales and “hoarding” situations.
“What began as a hobby turned into a successful business, and now I get to share this passion in such an innovative space like Corte-Land,” Amanda expressed.
Building an Inspired Community
Kami emphasized the importance of making the Corte-Land Art House accessible and welcoming for everyone. “I want artists to feel that it’s okay for art to be intentional and for spaces to inspire them,” he noted, highlighting his hopes for encouraging more creative spaces to emerge in Knoxville.
The venue is situated conveniently near the UT campus and downtown, making it an ideal location for community involvement. They participate in local First Friday events, showcasing a variety of artists, including comedians and musicians, with plans to host multiple shows weekly once fully operational.
Looking Ahead
The Corte-Land Art House is still on the lookout for investors to help solidify its sustainable model in the community. Already, the support from local residents and fellow artists has been encouraging. If you are interested in visiting, their retail hours are 12-7 pm on Tuesday to Thursday and 1-7 pm on Friday and Saturday.
For artists, retailers, or investors interested in further information or support, there’s an inquiry form available on the Corte-Land website. The establishment promises to not only uplift local talent but also to serve as a beacon of creativity in Knoxville.
