Our Story:

In Spring 2024, we (Shayla and Giselle) heard that You Belong Here (YBH) was closing. We held and attended meetings and events in the space for our various community roles over the years. We enjoyed the warm atmosphere and hospitality that Nic offered. We are artists who have experienced struggles in finding accessible and affordable space to do our work, gather, and be in community with others. We also have friends and colleagues who have discussed how difficult it is to find space in San Diego to convene and feel supported in their work. We were sad that a community space like You Belong Here was closing and we wanted the space to continue with art and creativity at the core.

We spoke to Nic at one of You Belong Here’s last hosted events, Exquisite Corpse by Yvette Roman at Creative Gathering. We immediately were interested in learning more about YBH’s business model and the process for leasing the space. We had limited time to make a decision, but we knew that the space was worth pursuing. We were already excited just thinking about possible collaborations, programs, and community focused gatherings that could be held in the space. In six weeks, after much conversation, paperwork, and some (joyful and terrified) tears heARTSpace was born! We consider ourselves one of the last businesses that was created through the support of Nic and You Belong Here at the 3619 El Cajon Blvd location. You Belong Here cultivated a community of creatives and heARTSpace honors that legacy by continuing to offer community members access to use the venue for their artistic and creative practices. We are just beginning this journey called heARTSpace, but we feel very thankful for our community and supporters so far!