Pillsbury Creative Commons Launches Hub for Arts and Economic Development in South Minneapolis
Grand Opening & Block Party – July 26, 2025
A Plan for Creative Community Transformation
Photo by Bruce Silcox
Introducing Pillsbury Creative Commons
Pillsbury House + Theatre proudly announces the launch of Pillsbury Creative Commons (PCC)—a newly expanded community arts and economic development hub opening to the public on Saturday, July 26, 2025. Join us for a block party celebration from 1–5 PM at the corner of 35th Street and Chicago Avenue.
PCC strengthens our commitment to using arts, technical training, and media to uplift community voices and create real economic opportunity. The new campus spans 3501 to 3529 Chicago Avenue, neighboring the historic Pillsbury House + Theatre and Full Cycle Bike Shop.
A Bold Investment in South Minneapolis
Two new cornerstones anchor the PCC campus:
- KRSM 98.9 FM: A 24-hour community radio station with new, Gensler-designed street-facing studios offering passersby a glimpse into live radio production.
- The Scene Shop: Home to the Technical Arts Training Program (TAT@P) led by André Samples, training residents in scenic carpentry, welding, lighting, painting, and sound.
“This bold new vision affirms our deep commitment to community-rooted innovation, access, and transformation through the arts.” – Noël Raymond, Sr. Director of Arts & Culture, Pillsbury United Communities
KRSM + TAT@P: Building Creative Futures
Since launching in 2017, KRSM has been a vital civic voice—especially during the 2020 uprising when access to its original studios was cut off. Today, KRSM returns with renewed infrastructure to foster storytelling, media literacy, and multilingual expression.
TAT@P provides paid, multi-phase training in the technical arts, with opportunities for both adults and youth participants from the Step-Up program. This initiative directly connects community members to viable, creative career pathways.
About the Building and Design
Designed by Gensler’s local team, the PCC building is a flexible, light-filled space rooted in wellness and sustainability:
- Street-facing studios create transparency and connection
- A green roof helps manage rainwater, reduce heat, and buffer sound
- A full-height window stairwell encourages movement and natural light
- Residential artist units include access to a second-floor outdoor deck for rest and reflection
Meet the Project Team
Nancy St Germain
Project Manager, Flannery Construction
A leader in community-centered construction with 22+ years of experience, Nancy helped balance high design goals with budget and long-term community impact.
Meet the Project Team
Mike Zacher
Superintendent, Flannery Construction
With two decades of hands-on construction experience, Mike brought precision and communication to field operations, guiding PCC from blueprint to reality.
Celebrate With Us: Inside Out Block Party
Saturday, July 26, 2025
1–5 PM
35th St & Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
Chicago Avenue from 35th to 36th will be closed to traffic.
1–5 PM
35th St & Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN
Chicago Avenue from 35th to 36th will be closed to traffic.
Live Music: Give Get Sistet
Live DJ Broadcasts: Powered by KRSM
Tours: Explore the new PCC campus
Activities: Family-friendly fun all afternoon
Live DJ Broadcasts: Powered by KRSM
Tours: Explore the new PCC campus
Activities: Family-friendly fun all afternoon
Artist Market Vendors:
- Mudluk Pottery
- Virginia Griffin (spices)
- Maricela Diaz (beadwork)
- Ellen Overaa (resin art)
- Stephanie Watts (prints, apparel)
- Folasade (zines)
- Ronnie Spann (jewelry)
- Della K-Z (herbal art)
- Emma Clark (paintings, sculpture)
- Màrquise Bowie (books)
- Voice of Culture (crafts)
- Lu Berry (decorative jars)
- Ace Rice (art collectibles)
Food Vendors:
- Kosharina Egyptian Cuisine
- El Pariente Mexican Grill
- Life Juices
- The Dogfather
- Jakeeno’s
Now Rising
Pillsbury Creative Commons
Learn about our new shared home for creativity, opportunity and belonging.