Cinch Art Space

The Cortland Corset Building at 75 East Court Street is a cathedral of industrial age America.  Built in 1872 by the Cortland Wagon Company, the building boasts double brick construction, massive wooden beams, spacious enclosed stairways, and wide floor boards that give a satisfying creak with every step.  And everywhere, the windows.  Tall and plentiful, lined up to dutifully pull natural light into a space built before workers relied on electricity.

Fortunately, instead of being demolished in favor of strip mall architecture, this magnificent structure is going through a quiet renaissance of utility as its owners gradually fill the building with wellness facilities and tenants pursuing artistic endeavors.  Dozens of small businesses are being incubated in the Corset Building:  This is the bridge between Cortland’s industrial past and its post-industrial future.

Cinch Art Space – An all local gift shop and boutique, features the works of 60 local artisans and craftspeople.  Jewelry, fine woodworking, pottery, handmade soap, and so much more.  Cinch also offers classes.  Go to CinchArtSpace.com for details.  Tues – Fri 10 to 5, Sat 10 – 3 with late hours on Thursdays until 7 pm and Sundays in December 10 – 3.

Magpie – Promoting and teaching sewing, handicrafts, and the recycling and reuse of fiber and decorative materials. Magpie offers a community space to appreciate and purchase fine handicrafts while learning, first-hand, about the skill and artistry behind the creations.  Go to MagpieCortland.com for more information.

Situated just 2 blocks from the courthouse on East Court between Pendleton and Pomeroy Streets, the Corset Building is also home to Cortland’s only comic book shop, a yoga studio, massage therapists, a chiropractor, an acupuncturist, and painting studios.

And there is space available for more.  Call 607-745-5656 to inquire.