By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — A downtown gallery and collaborative arts studio has reformed as a nonprofit and changed its name.

317 Art Collaborative, formerly known as 317 Art Collective, was reformed as a nonprofit on Jan. 10, the organization said Tuesday in a news release.

The nonprofit’s space at 317 Market St. will still be used as artist studios and a contemporary art gallery. There will also be additional community events and art education programs, including a free after school program for Rockford Public Schools middle and high school students that is now underway.

“317 has long been known for hosting a variety of community events and being a safe haven for artists, musicians, writers and all members of the community regardless of age, ethnicity, religion or orientation,” Laura Gomel, executive director of 317 Art Collaborative, said in a news release. “Becoming a nonprofit was just the natural next step in the progression of 317.”

Related: ‘Be whimsical every day’: Arts Happening brings wonder to downtown Rockford

The mission of 317 Art Collaborative is to promote community engagement by providing art education for all levels, as well as providing space for making, showing and selling art. It also aims to provide exposure to multi-disciplinary public events and mentorship opportunities for emerging artists.

Fast facts | 317 Art Collaborative

Where: 317 Market St., Rockford

To donate: To make a tax-deductible donation contact 317artcollaborative@gmail.com or visit 317art.org.

Contact: 815-272-0411

This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on Twitter at @KevinMHaas.