Three local businesses in the Tower District were forced to close after a fire broke out on Sept. 16. Since the incident, members of the community have rallied together in support, but the future remains unknown for The LAByrinth Art Collective, one of the businesses affected.
The LAByrinth Art Collective, Spokeasy Public House, and Jazzy’s Jeans N Things and Herbal Products were the businesses impacted by the fire. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
Alicia Rodriguez, the chair and cofounder of The LAByrinth Art Collective, said she felt the fire affected her business the most. On top of damage caused by the fire, there was destruction to the front door due to the Fresno Fire Department entering the building, and extensive damage to the roof.
“The damage is the most extensive in our spot. Spokeasy suffered some minimal damage in their backyard, and Jazzy has some smoke damage,” Rodriguez said. “There was also damage to the door, but that’s to be expected. I’d rather have a damaged door than a burnt down building.”
According to Rodriguez, The LAByrinth Art Collective operated as an inclusive arts and performance venue that began as a public art event in 2016. She said it was formed into a nonprofit in 2022, and the focus has been on hosting events and building a solid team.
“The heart of the LAByrinth is basically explorative and a little weird, but the inclusivity is massive,” Rodriguez said. “It’s something that’s more of a passion project that kind of evolved into something that’s needed.”
A black box theater was also utilized in the building, which was described to add a “unique element” to the diverse array of events that have been either postponed or canceled due to the fire.
Rodriguez said the black box was damaged as well, and that damage impacts the space that would usually be used for dance and variety shows.
Additionally, Rodriguez said the intention behind the self produced events hosted by the LAByrinth have always been about building a community around that space. The events were also designed to serve as a platform for marginalized members of the community, and it gave locals a platform to tell their stories.
“I think Fresno’s arts and culture scenes needed a boost for a long time. We have a lot of talent here. I don’t think there’s an absence of talent, there’s an absence of resourcing it,” Rodriguez said.
A number of fundraiser events have been arranged and organized by neighboring businesses such as Root Access Hackerspace, Sour Milk Shop, Fulton55 and members of the community.
A benefit concert and fashion show for The LAByrinth Art Collective and Spokeasy will take place at the Fulton55 theater on Oct.11 at 6 p.m.
Rodriguez said she’s grateful for the camaraderie, support and everything that’s being organized. The support has been motivating her to hold onto the space.
“We will be producing some fundraiser events, but we’re trying to get our footing and handle immediate matters at hand,” Rodriguez said. “We operate like true neighbors, and that’s a big part of the appeal of staying here on the block.”
