About Us

Welcome!

Welcome to the extraordinary world of Open Space for Arts & Community, where creativity and community come together to inspire, connect, and transform. At Open Space, we embody the spirit of YES!, enthusiastically encouraging innovation and artistic expression. More than a physical location, we are a dynamic, energetic hub of creativity, embracing both artists and the community with open arms. Our vibrant space is home to a variety of programs, events, and classes, all led by and for artists who are passionate about providing memorably extraordinary experiences.

Mission

Open Space is where Vashon gathers to celebrate the unbreakable bond between arts and community. We co-create extraordinary artistic, community-building experiences that enrich and inspire all involved.

Purpose

We are an incubator for new ideas. We bring dreams to life.

We offer a lively diverse range of arts, and proudly contribute to the success of fundraisers, classes, community meetings and more.

We are led by artists, in service to our community.

art. heart. soul.

A Community for All

At Open Space, we invite you to become a part of our community and experience the magic for yourself. Our programs and events are thoughtfully designed to foster connections across ages and backgrounds. From aerial, jiu jitsu, yoga, and circus skills classes to a variety of arts workshops and projects hosted by the Vashon Maker Space and Vashon Tool Library, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Located in two spacious, converted warehouses, Open Space offers 23,000 square feet of flexible, interior space. The Grand Hall and the smaller Bruce Black Box Theatre, both designed with meticulous attention to acoustics and comfort, set the stage for performances and large scale events. Five multipurpose rooms cater to rehearsals, classes, meetings, and various creative endeavors.

Our buildings open to ten acres of natural beauty, with mountain views to the south of The Great Lawn, which is a three acre grassy meadow perfect for outdoor concerts and gatherings. The grounds feature a natural stage framed by majestic Douglas firs and picturesque gathering spaces tucked among wooded trails.

Open Space has been the stage for hundreds of events and productions, featuring both world-renowned artists and emerging talents. From sold-out performances by artists like Macklemore and Trevor Hall to community events including fundraisers, lectures, and celebrations of all kinds, we proudly serve as Vashon’s community gathering space. Through it all, we remain committed to supporting local nonprofit organizations, with over $2,500,000 raised under our roof.

L: Janet McAlpin and David Godsey launch their dream to create Open Space for Arts & Community. R: 2023, Janet and David with Executive Director Chuck Zimmer.

History

Open Space founders Janet McAlpin and David Godsey have been performing artists in the Puget Sound region since they moved to Vashon in 1989. As artists on Vashon they knew first hand that the island needed a large, flexible, gathering place, big enough for hundreds to gather for celebrations, for classes, for aerialists to fly and performances of all kinds, a space with artists at the core that served the community at large.

In 2006, after years of searching, they purchased the former Stewart Brothers coffee warehouse property, and in 2008 opened the doors as Open Space for Arts & Community.

Staff

Join Us!

We’d love to share what we’re up to with you. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, join our Facebook Group Team O for inside info and special offers.