The Ultimate Creative Factory

Imagine a place where creativity flows freely across mediums, where color and design are met with expression and education, and where the arts are accessible to everyone, regardless of financial status. This vision will soon become a reality with the expansion of the brand new ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL on Bethlehem’s SouthSide.

Set to open in late 2026, the ArtsQuest Creative Factory revitalizes the much-loved Banana Factory, long a cultural anchor and gateway to Bethlehem’s SouthSide Arts District. While the Banana Factory has been home to ArtsQuest’s visual arts and education programming since 1998, it has outgrown its capacity while simultaneously becoming in need of overwhelmingly expensive repairs that would be cost-prohibitive to the nonprofit’s mission. The new facility will honor its legacy by expanding offerings and providing more opportunities for creativity and community engagement.

This project is made possible by ArtsQuest’s Re-Imagine That! Capital Campaign and the long-standing partnership between ArtsQuest and the PPL Foundation. Their shared vision of vibrant, inclusive communities comes to life in this state-of-the-art facility designed to foster innovation in the visual and performing arts and provide accessible arts experiences for all.

Standing five stories high with 78,500 square feet of space, the ArtsQuest Creative Factory will offer expanded arts-based programming for all ages. Featuring comedic performances, interactive workshops, and dedicated meeting spaces, the facility will serve as a dynamic gathering place. A brand-new 5,500-square-foot glass studio will offer an inspiring place to create, while resident artists will gain 20% more studio space. With increased capacity for year-round programs and camps, the facility will also provide expanded opportunities for the community to get involved free of charge and will enhance accessibility, including the addition of bilingual wayfinding throughout the building.

This project exemplifies the power of collaboration. With partners like the Bethlehem Area School District, Air Products, Martin Guitar, and many more, the ArtsQuest Creative Factory will provide guests with the tools, space, and inspiration to challenge their creativity and explore new artistic avenues.

For those eager to learn a new skill, create, or simply unplug, the ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL will soon become Lehigh Valley’s premier destination for creative expression. Visit reimaginethat.artsquest.org for exclusive updates and to support this transformative capital campaign.

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