New art center in Derby

Derby (WTNH) - The former homeless shelter in Derby has some new tenants moving in. The city is signing over the space over to a group of artists.

The Spooner House left Derby for a new home earlier this year, leaving a big empty space. In a small, crowded space two blocks away, the Valley Arts Council is setting up for its fall show. It turns out the council always had its eye on the Spooner House.

"Being occupied by the homeless shelter, the opportunity wasn't there to grab it, but we knew someday they would vacate the premises," said Richard DiCarlo of the Valley Arts Council.

With the homeless shelter gone, the city of Derby agreed to sign the building over to the artists. Mayor Tony Staffieri (R) says it will improve the neighborhood.

"It starts with a light. You light one building and another building lights up next to it, and in a positive way," Mayor Staffieri said.

And for the artists, it will mean much needed work space

"There are two big rooms upstairs that will hold 10-15 studio spaces, and it's another good way for the artists to start communicating with each other," said Leslie Adams of the Valley Arts Council.

Downstairs will be classrooms where kids, seniors, everyone can take art classes. And considering it was only a few months ago that the valley got its first art gallery, a whole art center is a big step.

"It proves that art is alive and well in a football neighborhood, let's say," said DiCarlo.