ICYMI 2024: The Exciting Future of LED in Boise’s Arts Scene
As the holiday season draws near, the BoiseDev team is taking a well-deserved break, but before we sign off, let’s reflect on a transformative year for the arts in our community. Among the many incredible stories that have shaped Boise in 2024, the journey of LED, a nonprofit arts organization co-founded by Lauren Edson and Andrew Stensaas, stands out. This year marked a significant turning point for LED as it embarks on an exciting new chapter with the acquisition of a permanent home in Garden City.
The Vision Behind LED
Lauren Edson, who grew up in Boise, co-founded LED in 2015 with her husband, Andrew Stensaas, a talented musician and creative director. They launched the organization with a bold ambition: to stage diverse and original performances in unconventional spaces across the community. From vibrant city streets to celebrated events like Treefort, LED has become synonymous with creativity and innovation in the local arts scene.
With the ever-evolving landscape of Boise’s artistic community, Edson has consistently emphasized the importance of adaptability and creativity. “We have been somewhat nomads in our own community, which we love,” she explains. “We like to find ourselves in spaces that are unexpected for performances.” This spirit of exploration has been pivotal in defining LED’s unique artistic identity.
A New Home for Creativity
In a remarkable development, LED has recently secured a twenty-year lease at the former Dixon Container building, nestled in the heart of Garden City’s Live-Work-Create District. This impressive location at 3300 W. Chinden Boulevard will serve as LED’s permanent home, providing a dedicated venue to showcase and develop original dance and music performances.
Edson expresses her excitement about this newfound stability, stating, “This will allow us to perform and share our work regularly while presenting artists we think are wonderful and that our community deserves to experience.” Such a venue is critical in a growing city where the local arts scene is bursting with talent yet lacks intimate performance spaces.
Fundraising for a Bright Future
To make necessary renovations to their new building, LED has embarked on an ambitious $2 million capital campaign. Notably, before the campaign’s official launch, LED secured an impressive $800,000 in donations, including a significant $200,000 grant from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust. This early success reflects the community’s support and recognizes the essential need for a dedicated arts space in Boise.
Addressing the Local Arts Need
As Edson reveals, the acquisition of the Dixon Container building addresses a significant gap within Boise’s arts landscape. The current primary venue, Boise State University’s Morrison Center, seats nearly 2,000 people—a scale that often feels too impersonal for local artists. “There’s a need among local artists for additional venues that seat 150-300 people,” she notes. The intimate setting of LED’s new venue will offer artists a close connection with their audience, fostering a more enriching cultural experience.
Envisioning an Artistic Destination
LED’s vision for the new building is comprehensive, incorporating a range of activities and spaces tailored for both artists and the community. Edson and Stensaas aspire to curate an environment where guests can experience art long before stepping into the performance space. “So much of an art experience happens from the moment you get out of your car and walk through the threshold,” Edson explains. From a welcoming lounge serving drinks and food to a multi-functional performance space, every detail is designed to elevate the guest experience.
The proposed layout includes a movement studio located in an upstairs loft, which will offer classes, workshops, and an area for local artists to showcase their work. This versatility ensures that the venue can cater to a diverse array of artistic expressions, from dance to comedy, and even private events like weddings.
Supporting Local Artists
Moreover, LED’s commitment to supporting local artists extends beyond the confines of performance. Prior to relocating, LED fostered an “Artists Haven” program that allowed creative minds from various disciplines to present their work. This initiative will continue in the new space, providing performing artists with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in Boise.
Edson acknowledges the challenges performers face when striving to establish long-term careers in the area. “It feels like we’re part of that conversation and helping to bring resources and opportunities to artists so that they can and want to stay here,” she states. This sense of commitment to nurturing local talent and providing a thriving network for artists reflects a deep-rooted understanding of the challenges and potential within Boise’s creative community.
A Vision Realized
As LED prepares to transform the former Dixon Container building into a vibrant hub for artistic expression, it symbolizes not just a physical space but also a dedication to the enrichment of Boise’s cultural scene. With continued support from the community and a bold vision for the future, LED stands poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the local arts landscape for years to come. For anyone passionate about the arts in Boise, this is a moment of joyful anticipation. If you’ve missed any part of this inspiring journey, remember—every bit of support counts. Join us in following the growth of LED and the vibrant community it nurtures.
In closing, as we reflect on the past year, let us celebrate the artists, organizations, and community members who contribute to the vibrant tapestry that makes Boise a unique and thriving place for creativity. And for those who want to stay updated, be sure to check in with BoiseDev throughout the holidays—we’ll be keeping an eye on the stories that matter. Have something newsworthy? Don’t hesitate to reach out!
