Chashama Information

We support artists by partnering with property owners to transform unused real estate into space for artists to create, present, and connect with the mission to increase equity and bolster diversity in the arts. For over three decades, Chashama has played a central role in sustaining New York’s vibrant artistic community by giving space to 20,000 artists, hosting 4,000 public art events, providing 1,500 free art classes in underserved communities, and reaching an audience of nearly 1 million. We envision a cultural ecosystem that’s representative and supportive of diverse communities. We want New York to be a place where all artists— aspiring, emerging, and established— feel supported, valued, and encouraged. It was founded in 1995 by Artistic Director Anita Durst to remedy what she observed to be the greatest threat artists faced: the lack of affordable space. Since its inception Chashama has worked collaboratively with artists, property owners, and the New York community to activate space and support under-resourced communities, establishing itself as a well-regarded cultural force on a mission to increase access to the arts for all.