Bakery-turned-studio Enriched Bread Artists turns 25

Ottawa's largest artist collective is turning 25 this weekand is celebrating with an open house and three-tieredcake.

Enriched Bread Artists was named after its industrial home a former breadfactoryoverlooking the O-Train tracks on Gladstone Avenue.

It's created a space for artists to come together and cultivate a community space that's more than just a studio.

"For me, I went to art school in my 30's," said Sayward Johnson, a metal artist who uses the space.

"When Ifinishedart school and started practicingas an artistI was home with my daughter full-time and really isolated. Joining EBA has allowed me to join a collectiveof other artists and feel a sense of community."

Johnson said she believes the space helps artists develop their craftthrough collaborations and peer-critique.

She also believes it's helping grow the art community in the city.

"We're all quirkyand eccentric in our weird ways. I love it here," said Johnson.

The space will be hosting an open studio night Friday to celebrate the anniversary.

There will be an open photo exhibit that highlights the history of the building, including archival photos from the original 1920's bakery.