Popular D.C. Art Festival Faces Temporary Closure
Artomatic 2024, the highly anticipated return of the interactive art festival to Washington D.C. after a 15-year hiatus, has encountered a temporary setback due to permitting challenges.
The seven-week event, which opened its doors in a former Foggy Bottom office building (2100 M St., NW) just days ago, offered eight floors of art exhibits, daily workshops, and planned performances. However, organizers announced yesterday that the festival would be closed until further notice to address permitting issues.
Permitting Hiccups for Unique Event
According to Patrick Oberman, leading the Artomatic DC team, obtaining permits for the previous D.C. festival location in 2009 was a smooth process. However, the new venue presented unforeseen challenges.
Initially, the organizers secured a Certificate of Occupancy, believing it to be sufficient. However, the D.C. Department of Buildings later clarified that a Building Permit would be required for the full seven-week duration.
Efforts Underway for Reopening
Despite the closure, Oberman remains optimistic. While the temporary Certificate of Occupancy expired on Sunday, Artomatic secured an extension for Friday's opening event, featuring a speech from Mayor Muriel Bowser.
To reopen, Artomatic requires a formally approved Plan of Egress prepared by an architect. Oberman confirms this process is underway, aiming for completion by Friday evening.
Unforeseen Bureaucracy for Unique Event
"Our event seems to have fallen through the cracks of a bureaucratic system not designed for such unique situations," Oberman stated. "Many events utilize empty spaces under the radar, but Artomatic's scale and duration make it exceptional."