Local artists have a new place to call home: the Depot Arts District. This creative hub is bringing life to the former Searstown shopping center and Lakeland's arts scene as a whole.

The volunteer-run Lakeland Arts Association will operate the Depot. President Sherry Ross shared that the organization has around 200 active members, but finding local studio space is a challenge for many artists. The huge complex at 955 E. Memorial Blvd. could change that, with multiple galleries, outdoor event space, and 35+ individual studios.

Artists can use these studios to create, sell their work, or host events. | Photo by LALtoday

How will these studios be used? That depends on the artists inside. They're open for creatives of all stripes, from jewelry makers to ballet teachers, and you might even hear a music lesson down the hallways.

You can already find artists moving in, plus a few bright murals by artist Sonia Sanchez. | Photo by LALtoday

Be the first to see inside the Depot at the grand opening event, Depot Walk: Artwork Comes to Life, on Saturday, Nov. 1, 6-9 p.m. Dress as your favorite artwork to browse the newly filled studios and see the inaugural exhibit in the gallery.