Lets Open SEEN Rhode Island
Donation protected
Founded in 2015, SEEN RI is Located in historic downtown Pawtucket and situated within the newly formed Blackstone River Valley Natl. Park. Initially, SEEN was opened as a "gallery" to showcase the works of emerging and established artist, in a New York style setting. In addition to supporting local artist, SEEN hoped to serve as a cultural hub downtown, for Pawtucket’s’ diverse population.
During the first couple of years, SEEN showcased the work of local, and world-class artists alike. Over the years, several articles have been written about the gallery, as well as a feature in ArtScope magazine in 2015. At the end of 2015, we decided to add a cafe/cabaret element to the space, to provide visitors with what they were asking for, provide a steady stream of income, and help support our artists. It took most of 2016 to transform the space, secure all of the necessary licensing/permitting, at a personal investment of $30,000. However, between the buildout and carrying cost, we have exhausted our funds.
Gallery 2015 (Tyler Vouros Show)
What is SEEN RI???
First off, by shredding “gallery” from our name, we are refusing to be shackled by conventional notions of what this space is. Going forward, SEEN RI will become a creative hotspot/cafe and cabaret, for those seeking an interactive and engaging atmosphere. Coffee will serve as the catalyst between these fertile environments, providing inspiration for ideas, or simply a mid-day break from the office.
Revised Logo
1. Arts Venue
2. Café
3. Cabaret (Performance Space)
Arts Venue- Curated by Philippe Lejeune, the space comes alive with interactive installations and art genres, which challenge convention and enlist public participation.
Café- The café at SEEN seeks to excite the senses, by serving aromatic blends of Coffee and espressos from around the world. Complimenting this will be some of the finest baked goods from around the region, in an atmosphere steeped in artistic culture.
Cabaret (Performance Space)- On weekends, SEEN comes alive with a kaleidoscope of sound and performance. from jazz and Latin folk to spoken word and dance, the downtown area will be transformed with creative energy!
Building on the above changes, we will be introducing a quarterly Artist in Residence Program. This program was created to provide artists with a greater platform, in which to showcase a broader scope of their talents. During their residency, artists will be responsible for the following, among other things:
• Showcasing original art
• Transforming/Curating the space
Current residents will showcase a blend of works meant to define the space, and challenge conventional notions. Artist will also receive a supporting stipend, to aid with supplies, and because they are valued.
SEEN RI Architectural Rendering
Rear Cafe/Stage View from Gallery
Entrance/Front Cafe Cube Seating
Bailame Latin Aerobics Class
What the money is for
We are in need of essential equipment and supplies, In order to open to the public. This is where you come in! By supporting SEEN RI financially, you can help create a sustainable and creative destination space in the heart of downtown Pawtucket. That said, we are currently working with the SBA to put together a sound business plan, to be used in securing startup capital. In the event that we are able to secure this funding, all non-reward based donations would be viewed as loans and therefore paid back, or if you wish, donated to further the arts. Also, we recognize that there are people in more pressing situations out there. Therefore, we are offering rewards in exchange for that initial support. Check out our reward levels for options!
The initial goal is to raise 50% of the total funding goal, in order to secure remaining equipment and supplies needs. The remainder of our goal will go to support arts programming until we become self-sustaining (projected 6 months). In the event we raise more than we had hoped for, I would further commit to supporting the revitalization of downtown Pawtucket, through arts initiatives.
Thank you all so very much, for taking the time to consider contributing to this dream! I am infinitely grateful and committed to the realization of our goals.
My very best,
Domingo Monteiro
Owner/Operator
SEEN RI
www.seenri.com
www.instagram.com/seen.ri
www.facebook.com/seenrhodeisland
During the first couple of years, SEEN showcased the work of local, and world-class artists alike. Over the years, several articles have been written about the gallery, as well as a feature in ArtScope magazine in 2015. At the end of 2015, we decided to add a cafe/cabaret element to the space, to provide visitors with what they were asking for, provide a steady stream of income, and help support our artists. It took most of 2016 to transform the space, secure all of the necessary licensing/permitting, at a personal investment of $30,000. However, between the buildout and carrying cost, we have exhausted our funds.
Gallery 2015 (Tyler Vouros Show)What is SEEN RI???
First off, by shredding “gallery” from our name, we are refusing to be shackled by conventional notions of what this space is. Going forward, SEEN RI will become a creative hotspot/cafe and cabaret, for those seeking an interactive and engaging atmosphere. Coffee will serve as the catalyst between these fertile environments, providing inspiration for ideas, or simply a mid-day break from the office.
Revised Logo1. Arts Venue
2. Café
3. Cabaret (Performance Space)
Arts Venue- Curated by Philippe Lejeune, the space comes alive with interactive installations and art genres, which challenge convention and enlist public participation.
Café- The café at SEEN seeks to excite the senses, by serving aromatic blends of Coffee and espressos from around the world. Complimenting this will be some of the finest baked goods from around the region, in an atmosphere steeped in artistic culture.
Cabaret (Performance Space)- On weekends, SEEN comes alive with a kaleidoscope of sound and performance. from jazz and Latin folk to spoken word and dance, the downtown area will be transformed with creative energy!
Building on the above changes, we will be introducing a quarterly Artist in Residence Program. This program was created to provide artists with a greater platform, in which to showcase a broader scope of their talents. During their residency, artists will be responsible for the following, among other things:
• Showcasing original art
• Transforming/Curating the space
Current residents will showcase a blend of works meant to define the space, and challenge conventional notions. Artist will also receive a supporting stipend, to aid with supplies, and because they are valued.
SEEN RI Architectural RenderingRear Cafe/Stage View from GalleryEntrance/Front Cafe Cube SeatingBailame Latin Aerobics ClassWhat the money is for
We are in need of essential equipment and supplies, In order to open to the public. This is where you come in! By supporting SEEN RI financially, you can help create a sustainable and creative destination space in the heart of downtown Pawtucket. That said, we are currently working with the SBA to put together a sound business plan, to be used in securing startup capital. In the event that we are able to secure this funding, all non-reward based donations would be viewed as loans and therefore paid back, or if you wish, donated to further the arts. Also, we recognize that there are people in more pressing situations out there. Therefore, we are offering rewards in exchange for that initial support. Check out our reward levels for options!
The initial goal is to raise 50% of the total funding goal, in order to secure remaining equipment and supplies needs. The remainder of our goal will go to support arts programming until we become self-sustaining (projected 6 months). In the event we raise more than we had hoped for, I would further commit to supporting the revitalization of downtown Pawtucket, through arts initiatives.
Thank you all so very much, for taking the time to consider contributing to this dream! I am infinitely grateful and committed to the realization of our goals.
My very best,
Domingo Monteiro
Owner/Operator
SEEN RI
www.seenri.com
www.instagram.com/seen.ri
www.facebook.com/seenrhodeisland
Organizer
Domingo Monteiro
Organizer
Pawtucket, RI
