[URBAN NOTE] "Local stars shine bright at YouTube Space Toronto"

[rfmcdonald]

Michelle da Silva's article at NOW Toronto explores what sounds like an ingenious institution. Why not a shared space for YouTube users of note?

The YouTube stars are setting up in one of two studios at the new YouTube Space Toronto, a creative incubator for online stars. The first Canadian location, located at 230 Richmond E behind George Brown College’s School of Design, is one of just nine global YouTube Spaces that include Tokyo, Berlin, Sao Paulo and Mumbai. The first one opened in Los Angeles in 2012.

“Toronto is a phenomenally creative city,” says Chris D’Angelo, the head of production and programming for YouTube Spaces. “It was important to have a large collaborative open space where our creators could come together. Community is a very big part of YouTube.”

The space was designed by George Brown students, with local elements added throughout. A red and grey pixelated print in the front entrance was apparently inspired by TTC streetcars. In another room, Toronto artist Alex Currie, who's better known as Runt, has painted a replica of his famous Lee's Palace mural. There is a lounge, event area, a foyer with a bar and two film studios. “You can take part in classes, and connect with other YouTube creators. We look at your subscriber count and try to offer the right help and solution, depending on what level you’re at.”

To that extent, the film studios – including professionally-built sets, cameras and lighting equipment – are free to use, but only open to YouTube stars with at least 10,000 subscribers. That isn’t a problem for the Domestic Geek, which boasts nearly a quarter million subscribers.

“I started the Domestic Geek just over two years go to share my passion for food with the world,” says Toronto’s Sara Lynn Cauchon. “I usually make cooking videos in my home kitchen, but it’s so cool that now I can come to the YouTube Space and film and collaborate with other creators here.”

Cauchon uploads several videos to her YouTube channel each week and has gotten more than 40 million views. Previously a broadcaster and TV host, she now runs the Domestic Geek as her full-time job. “You’re looking at the next generation of entrepreneurs,” she adds. “I think this space will help new creators evolve their channels. It’s really exciting stuff.”

DIY tutorials and healthy-cooking videos are just a sampling of Toronto’s online talent. A handful of YouTube stars hanging out in the space that day ranged from relationship experts (Ask Kimberly) and fashion gurus (AnthonyDelucV), to vegan chefs (Edgy Veg) and science educators (AsapSCIENCE).