People working in creative fields, visual, performing and literary artists, designers, architects, craftspeople, and those working with new genres, are often stymied in their work because they are consumed with having to pay their bills. Many artists cannot afford a dedicated studio space and have to work at home. This can be less than ideal if you are living with other people or live in a small domicile. Furthermore many creative people cannot earn a living from their work alone and have to take on other jobs outside of their profession. Others might accept work in their own field, but have to compromise their creative impulses by accepting assignments that are less than inspiring (for example an architect designing shopping malls or an artist painting copies of master works).

In these situations, artists may find themselves with little time to create their own work. With less time to work, the artist may feel as though he or she no longer has the leisure to make mistakes and be experimental. As every inventive person knows, often the greatest mistakes lead to the most innovative discoveries. Organ will not solve all these problems, but will help ensure the viability of the creative community by making it easier for many artists to afford a studio space, dedicate more time to their work, and feel free to research and experiment in the process.

The affordability of the Bazaar’s “stalls” will also make it possible for people of all trades to establish businesses of their own. Retail rates within Houston are often astronomical, running anywhere from $1000 to several thousand a month. Buying commercial space for many becomes an unobtainable dream. Organ can make that dream a reality for many people. Spaces in the Bazaar are easily adaptable no matter what the business, including restaurants, dental, medical, and veterinary clinics, childcare centers, art galleries, design and architectural studios, and shops where artisans can make and sell their wares.

Bartering and other alternative methods of economy will be possible among Organs’ tenants both retail and artist alike for those electing to break away from consumerist culture encouraged by a communal spirit. This sense of community at Organ will lead to collaboration among various fields and to the development of new creative genres. Through its encouragement of community, affordability and the use of sustainable construction practices, Organ will promote stewardship among all its participants.