Ann Monteiro and Paul Toussaint have a unified, two-fold vision. Working together they aim to continuously spark and sustain interest in the arts and build up the spirit of community. Utilizing the irresistible charm of downtown Putnam as their backdrop, the pair morphed an eye-sore of a gutted and vacant storefront into a dynamic art gallery thus creating a hub that draws art lovers into the city. Collaborating with other local businesses, artists, and individual volunteers to bring monthly unique exhibits into Putnam fosters the true meaning of community and keeps visitors coming back for more. Everyone from the neighboring restaurant owner to fellow galleries and to the street musician reap the benefits from these efforts. 

Economically and socially, the entire community improves from the positive impact of increased customer volume that the Empty Spaces Project generates. Most importantly, the exhibits are multifaceted community efforts resulting in affirmative lasting bonds between those who bring the events to fruition and the viewers that engage with both the art and the artists.