Somerset artist “creating a vibrant space for cultural and economic diversity” through historic building renovation
An artist and business owner with a firm dedication to the Somerset community, Alex Canonico said purchasing and restoring the building at 152 W. Main Street is about more than relocating her business—it’s a way to make a long-term impact and strengthen the community now and into the future.
Alex has owned Tattoos by Artful Alex for about five years, utilizing local resources for startups, including coaching and guidance from Somerset County’s Startup Alleghenies Coach Matt Reckner.
Her experience in construction and welding has been invaluable to the clean-out and renovation process, along with help from friends and family. The building now boasts a new metal roof and new windows in the front façade, funded in part by Somerset Inc.’s Facade Grant and Facade, Accessibility, and Safety Grant Program. Somerset Inc.’s Blight Remediation Grant Program through the Neighborhood Partnership Program is also helping to fund important improvements, like replacing the building’s box gutters to put an end to leaks that have damaged the building. The replacement is being done according to historic specifications.
My goal is not only to restore its former glory, but also to modernize its infrastructure and functionality, creating a vibrant space that inspires and welcomes cultural and economic diversity in this town…
“We are so excited to see this iconic Somerset building being renovated and even more excited to support Alex’s dreams,” Regina Coughenour, executive director of Somerset Inc. told the Somerset Daily American. “This project and entrepreneurs like Alex are exactly what we hoped the state facade grant and Neighborhood Partnership Program would support. We were able to award facade grants and NPP funds to support the cost of properly replacing the historic box gutters.”
“It’s one of the most stunning renovations yet and we’re looking forward to the complete transformation of this building and its next 100 years!” she continued.
Half the building is renovated for other local startups, like Byers Botanicals, which will begin opening this spring. “The other half is mine for my studio, new storefront, and space to add so many more elements to my current business,” Alex said. She plans to move in this fall with offerings like more walk-in events, more services, and more quality artists. Follow her social media for more information: Instagram, Facebook.
“This building holds immense historical significance for our community, and I am deeply honored to play a role in its revival,” Alex said. “My goal is not only to restore its former glory, but also to modernize its infrastructure and functionality, creating a vibrant space that inspires and welcomes cultural and economic diversity in this town. I want to show my daughter, and those who look up to me, that regardless of the adversity some face, if you work hard enough, you have the power to make your dreams become your reality.”
Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.
