Resiliency and Creativity in the Age of COVID: 3 Tucson Sunshine Mile Businesses Stand Out
“Most Awesome Feeling Ever,” by Lauren Cabrera
Businesses that opened their doors for the first time in March could not have anticipated the changes that were on the horizon. Despite the hardships that followed, many businesses have used this time to apply their focus to ways that will generate a successful future. One example is a small group of businesses on Sunshine Mile in Tucson who, despite struggles, have kept their business thriving through creative adjustments. Groundworks; a 501c3 non-profit and youth-driven community arts space, Cero; a zero-waste store, and Saint Cecilia Studios; a recording studio have each found ways to pivot during this time of crisis.
Groundworks
Groundworks secured their physical location in January but canceled all their scheduled events due to the COVID crisis. As soon as it became clear that gatherings, concerts, and events would be postponed, Groundworks pivoted their plans and programs to continue to serve their community! Thanks to the implementation of safety precautions Groundworks can now host small numbers of people in their space for band practices, gallery showings, and other events. In the venue and online you can find the incredible work of youth musicians and local artists. The abundance of gifted musicians and artists in Tucson is undeniable and Groundworks is providing the youth a space to create and showcase their talents. You can take a virtual tour of the venue and check out the art and music at https://www.groundworkstucson.com/virtual-grand-opening. On the interactive virtual tour, you can zoom in on the pieces of art and videos of band performances to learn more about the artists or purchase their art.
The Groundworks space can be found at 236 S Tucson Blvd. If you are an artist in the area, you can submit to their gallery and local musicians can utilize their facilities for practice and recording. For those who are also passionate about youth arts, you can donate to the operation costs of the venue or you can donate musical equipment, art supplies, furniture, store fixtures, classroom supplies, and donations of time or services that may benefit the space.
Prickly Pear and Cedar Tips Bar Soap
Cero
Cero is owned and operated by friends Val and Nelene. Both strive to live less wasteful lives and provide a way for others to do the same. Cero started in 2019 as a pop-up shop and since then they have grown into a retail and events space. Their grand opening was put on hold by COVID-19, but that hasn’t stopped them from finding ways to help those around them reduce their waste. Their products are ethically made, vegan, cruelty-free, and low on plastic and packaging. Cero recently started a collection program in partnership with TerraCycle recycling. Cero supports new ways to repurpose, redistribute, or recycle materials such as packaging, empty writing instruments and art supplies, E-waste, and even items such as nylon and steel guitar strings. Along with more traditional items such as glass jars and boxes, Cero will also accept more unique donations of plastic utensil kits, empty pill bottles, and more. You can find a complete list of what they collect and instructions on how to donate it at https://cerotucson.com/pages/collection-program.Cero is currently open for curbside pickups and recycling drop-offs and delivery and shipping is available when you order online. One of our favorite products is their Soy Wax Candles, they smell delicious and the jar is reusable! You can bring your empty jar back to Cero and they will fill it with one of their many refill products. You can also check out their blog for ideas on how to make “reduce, reuse and recycle” a larger part of your life.
The Control Room at Saint Cecilia’s
Saint Cecilia
Like Cero and Groundworks, Saint Cecilia had to delay their official opening due to COVID but they are planning a virtual grand opening at the end of October. Saint Cecilia is a recording studio made by artists for artists. While other recording studios may focus on gear, Saint Cecilia focuses on the art of production as a continuation of the creative process. It is a collaborative and safe space where new ideas can flow. Recording a song is the cumulation of hard work and passion and Saint Cecilia makes sure that comes through in the sound. Owners Steven and Celeste have a passion for Tucson and the abundance of talent and want to be a part of keeping Tucson on the map of the arts and cultural scene. They are invested in helping local artists get to that next level.
Steven and Celeste are thrilled to be back in Tucson after a brief stint in Portland. They have taken precautions to make sure their space is safe for artists and producers. Along with implementing safety guidelines such as distancing, disinfecting, and requiring masks (unless singing), they are only allowing a few people in at a time for recording. You can check out a playlist of some of the music Saint Cecilia has helped create on their website under “listen.”
They are now booking for Fall 2020 sessions, as well as remote mix work and small sessions in the studio. Check out their website to learn more and book a session!