AKRON, Ohio -- Hive Mind, a DIY music and arts venue in Akron, will host a final string of shows over the next month, then close its doors for good on Saturday, Feb. 8.

The venue and nonprofit, located at 375 West Exchange St., has been an inclusive space for new bands and artists to get exposure since it was founded in October 2015. Both regional and local bands have shared Hive Mind’s stage for hundreds of experimental, rock and hip-hop concerts.

Over the years, the venue saw performances by eclectic artists like Japanese noise rock duo An Atomic Whirl, Polish folk-punk band Hanba and a 19-member brass band called What Cheer? Brigade. Notable performers also include artists like Calvin Johnson, Jeffrey Lewis and David Dondero.

“We’re really lucky to have worked with these talented folks," said Hive Mind board member John Kuder. "However, our goal of giving a platform to more experimental and outsider artists has steered us away from typical ‘big acts.’”

Beyond music, Hive Mind also hosted film screenings, markets, fundraising events and educational seminars.

The venue’s closure was announced on Facebook on Jan. 2.

The post states:

“We feel ready to embark on different life journeys. We now know the incredible amount of time, money, skills and emotional labor it takes to run a (safe!) arts venue... It has been amazing to collaborate with such a dedicated and constantly expanding group of artists, volunteers, and local arts organizations. We have especially loved advocating for our fellow queer artists, artists of color, experimental artists, and all of the amazing locals that make this place home. "

Hive Mind still has a few shows lined up before it closes. On Tuesday, Jan. 14, a show will feature Sinai Vessel, Advance Base, Curtail and Pleasure Boy. Then on Friday, Jan. 31, an event titled “Pete+Maggie’s Big Noise Liquidation” will take place.

The venue’s final show, currently billed as “Final Final Fest," will happen on Feb. 8. After that, the venue isn’t sure what will happen to the building.

“We don’t have final say since we don’t own the building. That being said, we’re currently in talks with a few individuals who share our ethos and have some interesting ideas for the space,” Kuder said.

In Hive Mind’s Facebook post, the venue urged music fans to visit other local music venues and support DIY scenes in Northeast Ohio.

“We have worked (in conjunction with so many partners!) to set a new precedent for Akron DIY: one of inclusivity, awareness, and safety," the post states. "We know that the ethical guidelines that we and our partners have chosen to run shows by will continue to grow and expand in Akron and beyond.”

Read the full status below.

Hello artists, audiences, friends, lovers, families. We have an important announcement to make. After much discussion... Posted by Hive Mind on Thursday, January 2, 2020

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