Clearbrook Center of the Arts has showcased local talent for years. It is a creative space located in the Tacketts Mill – Lake Ridge, Virginia community. Clearbrook Center of the Arts is dedicated to showcasing the talent of local artists. In this building, talented artists in the area come together to perform their talents.
While the Center hosts events such as open mic nights, musical concerts, plays, they present the works of minority painters, illustrators, and other unique arts of all genres. An art gallery boasts original art of local community talents. With its new director, Mr. John Wooten, Clearbrook Center for the Arts is well on its way to presenting relatively unknown artists into the entertainment mainstream of the DMV and beyond. We had an opportunity to cover latest event at the arts center.
In a recent interview with the director and a musician, “Vaze”(on site to setup for the show, “Battle of the Beats”, which was held on September 10, 2022), he explained his ideas for Clearbrook and how he plans to give shine to the talent that comes through Clearbrook.
Mr. Wooten, give us a little more in-depth background on Clearbrook and what how you want to lead the center in promoting local talent.
John Wooten (JW): Clearbrook Center of the Arts developed from the idea of providing a space for independent artists who had access to limited resources to thrive. It was originally a movie theater and has undergone various transformations since its opening in 2016.
Not unlike the many artists that Clearbrook is committed to serving, Clearbrook faces some limitations since it is a nonprofit organization that operates off of donations and sweat equity. This limitation has necessitated a DIY approach to program development. Currently the center hosts concerts, workshops, poetry events and popup art events.
Clearbrook Center for the Arts has undergone leadership changes. What makes your approach at the Center’s helm unique?
JW: This particular event will showcase various beatmakers that are based out of the DC Metropolitan area. All genres of music are open to future showcases, but this event will primarily feature rap/hip-hop beatmakers.
What’s next for the arts center say if you’re looking to add perhaps a bit of jolt?
JW: You can expect a lot more events like this. Vaze and I are planning on collaborating with artists all over the county to create events in promotion of the arts.
Vaze, how and why did you get involved with the Clearbrook Center for the Arts?
I wanted to help highlight the sound of Northern Virginia and show the talents of producers with the goal of fostering collaborative growth in the local music industry. There’s a lot of talent in the DMV and this is a place that offers the opportunity for it to be heard.
What’s your target audience?
Vaze: The new age that is accelerating what’s trending and what’s in now. We want to highlight the talent in the area that’s not seen and give people here a chance to showcase that.
What about the aspiring musicians, poets, actors/actresses, etc., are there opportunities here for them as well?
Vaze: Yes, we have a series of events planned to cater to the growing musical community here with the goal of making them bigger and better and opening opportunities for the youth who musically inclined.
Gentlemen thank you very much for your time and the insight you’ve provided for the Clearbrook Center for the Arts and its new direction in discovering and promoting local talent.
For more information on what’s happening at the arts center, please visit their website at: https://clearbrookcenterofthearts.org
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