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Artists Find Creative Energy in Cedar Rapids’ New Bohemia Neighborhood
An
area that used to be a sad example of urban decay is becoming an epicenter
for the creative economy in Iowa.
New Bohemia, located on downtown Cedar Rapids’ southeast side, is slowly but surely finding a niche among artists and entrepreneurs who see potential in the aged buildings and the rich ethnic history. Walk down the neighborhood’s main street, 3rd Street SE, and you’re as likely to pass a refugee from Somalia as you are noted musicians and artists visiting from other states and nations.
Part of the area’s charm stems from the dedication of a few local individuals working to create affordable living spaces for artists, and an atmosphere that attracts, encourages and rewards talent, technology and tolerance.
For
Michael Richards, driving this renaissance of change means giving
the people what they need and want—spaces where
they can express themselves. Even the name, “New Bohemia”
not only honors the area’s Czech heritage, but also refers to the Bohemian
lifestyle made famous in Paris as writers, artists, musicians and students gathered
in cafes. As owner of the historic Matyk Building, Richards offers
his building for poetry readings and events, musical performances and writing
clubs.
“This
building was totally neglected for 60 years,” Richards said. “It had
no electricity, no running water. Now it’s a creative space open
to anyone with a creative project at no charge. The only rules are no
drugs, no alcohol and you have to be out of the building by 11:30 p.m., since
our family lives in the second floor loft.”
Two
blocks down from the Matyk Building sits the Osada—an affordable
apartment building housing many refugees. And right next door is Water
Tower Place, a historic building being renovated and changed into upscale
lofts through adaptive re-use. Despite the stark contrast in living situations,
Richards believes the incoming residents will live peacefully with the diverse
population that has called this area home for many generations.
“It’s a great thing to see this kind of development, where you can have housing for a wide range of economic segments co-existing, even next door to each other, without bringing about gentrification of the area,” Richards said.
In
addition to the Matyk Building, the cornerstones of the neighborhood include CSPS,
a converted Czech social hall that houses Legion
Arts, which hosts nationally-acclaimed musical events;
the historic Cherry Building with residential space and
retail tenants such as an organic lip balm company, massage therapists
and holistic healers; and the H.D. Youth Center, a drop-in center for the homeless
and area youth where computers, games and food are all readily available.
In July, the City of Cedar Rapids was awarded a $5 million from the state Vision Iowa program to revitalize its downtown. Included in the Cedar Bend Project are infrastructure improvements, street beautification, a year-round fresh food market and the transformation of a former landfill into a park. Many of the improvements will be apparent in and around New Bohemia, as city leaders hope to generate economic activity, create an enhanced quality of life and attract visitors.
But
New Bohemia is already embracing the change, offering festivals,
live musical entertainment, outdoor art exhibits, cultural venues
and a diverse bar scene.
“This is a grassroots effort,” Richards said.
“The cultural institutions that are here, the city
and now the residents are linking right into
this entire movement. You don’t see that a lot anymore.”
