DORF, an Austin-based community art space, announced it will move into a new location at Zilker Point Development (218 S. Lamar Blvd).
Established in 2018 by Sara Vanderbeek and Eric Manche, DORF presents exhibitions that showcase both emerging and established artists, amplify marginalized voices, and highlight issues related to social justice. To date, the gallery has operated out of Ms. Vanderbeek and Mr. Manche’s residence in South Austin. The new location is across the Colorado River from the city’s downtown.
Zilker Point. Rendering by Runa Workshop
Generational Commercial Properties, an Austin-based development company, has partnered with the City of Austin to form an agreement providing a lease of up to 10 years for the gallery at $1 per year. A city ordinance, created for the building, protects the rent-free space for future arts nonprofits. The document states, “The Landowner shall provide a minimum 1,000 square feet for an artist gallery… [that] shall be available to a local non-profit organization free of charge.”
In a press release, Ms. Vanderbeek, DORF’s Executive Director, and Mr. Manche, DORF’s Creative Director, shared the following statement: “This collaboration shows what is possible when cities recognize the value of art and invest in its sustainability. We hope this model inspires future collaborations between city officials and Austin’s many essential arts nonprofits. We can’t wait to open the doors to our new home, welcome guests, and continue to amplify the many vital voices of Austin’s creative community.”
The gallery is 1,062-square-foot and the building also features a rooftop garden, a commissioned permanent sculpture by Dallas-based artist Jessica Bell, and an outdoor plaza, where performances will be staged.
Jessica Bell, “W.A.B.O.,” 2024, powder-coated steel and acrylic, 15 x 8 x8 feet.
The space will open on Friday, October 25 with an inaugural exhibition titled Soft Opening. The show features works by Eepi Chaad, Michael Anthony Garciá, Nitashia Johnson, Bárbara Miñarro, Natalia Nakazawa, Rebeca Proctor, Libby Rosen, and James Viscardi. DORF will participate in this year’s Austin Studio Tour and will offer a ceramics workshop on Sunday, November 10 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Learn more about DORF gallery and stay up to date with its events via the organization’s website.
