ArtistLink is a collaborative effort to create a stable yet dynamic environment for Massachusetts artists.

ArtistLink achieves this mission by taking a leadership role on artist space by providing individual artists, developers, and municipalities with targeted information and technical assistance and by advocating for relevant policy changes at the state level. You can read more about ArtistLink services here. Check out their art space finder service, on-line homebuying course for artists and artist’s professional toolbox for career planning resources!

To find more information on resources available to help you do better business in the Berkshires visit Berkshire Creative’s Resource Page!

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Berkshire Creative and Massachusetts Fair Housing Center Offer First Time Home Buyer Training for Artists.

Saturday, December 6 and Saturday, December 13

9:30 am – 2:00 pm

Berkshire Bank, 66 West Street, Pittsfield, MA

Assets for Artists – a project of Berkshire Creative, MASS MoCA, MCLA’s Berkshire Cultural Resource Center and Pittsfield’s Office of Cultural Development, with funding from Berkshire Bank Foundation – is partnering with the Massachusetts Fair Housing Center to offer a two-part training seminar for artists interested in learning more about the home buying process. Participants will learn how to determine what they can afford and what will meet their artistic needs (live-work space, 2-4 unit properties with rental income, etc.). They will also hear from expert speakers on such topics as choosing and working with a real estate broker, making an offer on a house, comparing mortgage offers, applying for a mortgage, securing down payment assistance, obtaining legal representation for preparing and reviewing documents, selecting appropriate home insurance, utilizing a home inspector, preparing for life after the home purchase, and more.

The training will be tailored to the needs and challenges of artists in the Berkshires. Attendance at both sessions is required in order for the participant to receive “certification” from the state and become eligible for certain first-time home buyer mortgage and down payment assistance programs.

Artists who would like to participate in this two-part certified home buyer training should contact Blair Benjamin at MASS MoCA (413-664-4481 x8104 or blair@massmoca.org) to express interest or request more information. A limited number of slots will be available, offered first-come, first-serve. Pre-registration is required.

Do you have an item you would like to share about the creative economy? Suggest a Post to Berkshire Creative!

Studio now available at 311 North Street, Pittsfield, MA:

Second Floor
8 x 21 feet
Hardwood Floor
1 Large window facing North Street
Rent $145

Heat included, shared electric (additional surcharge of $10 for November-March)

If interested, contact Annie Laurie @ (413) 281-1230 or (413) 633-8395

Do you have an item you would like to share about the creative economy? Suggest a Post to Berkshire Creative!