Ruth Lubbers has been executive director of Art Access/VSA Arts of Utah since 1993. Serving on the Utah Museums Association and Utah Arts Festival boards, Lubbers is a voice for building community through the arts, providing opportunities for people with disabilities and other underserved individuals. When its 25-year lease on Pierpont Avenue recently came to an end, Art Access/VSA Arts of Utah relocated to 230 S. 500 West No. 125. A ribbon-cutting ceremony takes place Sept. 15 at 6 p.m.
nnWhere is the new gallery stroll scene?
nnThe visual arts scene seems to be gravitating to the near west side. Gallery Stroll in Salt Lake City has never been conducive to walking. Slowly, there is evolving an area that is easily walkable. It includes the Pierpont block, the Rio, the new Artspace City Center, Patrick Moore and Palmers galleries.
nnWhat is your fondest memory of Pierpont Avenue?
nnPierpont was and still is unique. There is something wonderful about walking up and down the loading dock and popping into various studios and galleries.
nnHow do you think the Pierpont Avenue situation could have been handled differently?
nnThere are so many rumors swirling around, some nasty. The real problem boils down to Artspace not actually owning the Pierpont property, as they do their other projects. A 25-year lease can seem like a long time but eventually all good things come to an end.
nnHow do you like the new space?
nnI love the ambience of this old warehouse. We just couldn’t leave Pierpont and go into a newer building. Already, tenants here are becoming a community.
nnWhat does the ribbon-cutting on Sept. 15 mean to you?
nnIt means that the construction will be over. Have you ever worked at your desk with chunks of grout falling on your head?
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