A new survey shows valley artists want more options for affordable work and living quarters.  The study backs a proposal to build a multi-use arts center in downtown Mesa.

More than 700 artists across the Phoenix area responded to the survey Mesa commissioned from the national, non-profit group Artspace.  It shows strong support for a communal building in Mesa that would offer housing, work and exhibit space to about 50 low-income artists.  Mesa’s Arts and Culture Director Cindy Ornstein said the study also identifies what artists want in the design of the building.

"Ceiling heights, the ability of floors to handle a lot of weight if you have people who use heavy equipment like making metal sculpture for example” Ornstein said.

She said artists surveyed say they also prefer a lot of natural light, internet and rehearsal space for dance and theater.  No tax money would be used for the project that’s still in the early planning stages.  Private donations and grants would be used for construction.