Recall a time when art challenged the very fabric of our city. That’s precisely the legacy of Storefront for Art and Architecture. It stands before you now. Storefront for Art and Architecture is an independent nonprofit. It champions innovative ideas in architecture art and design.
Founded in 1982 by Kyong Park Storefront began in a humble space on Prince Street. Its mission was bold. It aimed to influence public policies affecting city life through art and design. Glenn Weiss joined as co-director from 1984 to 1986. Together they launched the civic dialogue and activist project format. This led to Storefront’s move to its current location on Kenmare Street.
Shirin Neshat co-directed Storefront with Kyong Park until the mid-1990s. Park remained the Executive Director until 1998. From its start Storefront blended solo and group shows. These events tackled New York City issues. Topics included the Gowanus Canal pollution and homelessness. They even touched on the removal of Richard Serra’s Tilted Arc. Early exhibitors included Coop Himmelblau and Dan Graham.
In 1993 Storefront commissioned a unique facade redesign. Artist Vito Acconci and architect Steven Holl collaborated. They created rotating panels that blurred the line between gallery and street. The design fostered a dialogue between art and the city. Intended as a temporary installation it remains to this day.
The facade underwent restoration in 2008. This ensures its continued presence as an iconic landmark.
Storefront’s exhibitions often spark conversation. Clip Stamp Fold explored the role of independent architecture magazines. CCCP showcased Soviet architecture in Los Angeles. Spacebuster transformed public spaces into community hubs. In response to Occupy Wall Street Storefront sought ideas for better communication with those in power.
Storefront also hosts Postopolis. This is a series of talks about cities and design. Letters to The Mayor examined the relationship between architects and local government. Several exhibitions integrate the Acconci and Holl facade into their designs.
The New York Architectural Book Fair was founded by Storefront in 2017. It features salons in private libraries and pop-up book collections. Storefront is located in a triangular space on Kenmare Street. It tapers from 20 feet to 3 feet.
Storefront’s programming includes exhibitions events competitions and publications. These serve as a forum for discussing contemporary issues. Bernard Tschumi and Peter Cook have participated in Storefront events.
Competitions address relevant cultural issues. Homeless at Home sought housing solutions for the homeless. White House Redux asked for alternative designs for the White House. Total Housing explored new domestic space typologies.
Directors of Storefront have included Kyong Park Shirin Neshat and José Esparza Chong Cuy.
Storefront for Art and Architecture has played a vital role. It has contributed to New York’s urban history. It serves as a community-driven space. It engages in discussions about dislocation and gentrification. Storefront perseveres as an inspiring institution. It explores possibilities for the future.
As you move on consider the impact of Storefront. Think about its dedication to promoting discourse. Remember its commitment to spatial experimentation.