City of Albuquerque and 516 ARTS Announce New Creative Venue

Collaboration to bring innovative arts programming to 1st Street

The City’s Department of Arts & Culture and 516 ARTS have announced a new arts collaboration in Downtown, based in the former location of Warehouse 508. This partnership intends to bring vibrant and innovative arts programming to 1st Street, contributing to the area that is becoming a hub for the arts and community engagement. The City has started the process of renovating the space. The design process will begin this summer, and renovation are expected to begin in early 2025. 

The initiative and new space aims to foster creativity, support local artists, and provide a dynamic venue for exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. “New life continues to spring up in Downtown, and I believe we’re creating the catalyst for something very special with this collaboration,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Bringing such an innovative arts center to this area enhances our city’s cultural landscape and provides a great experience for Albuquerque families and visitors alike”. “516 ARTS has been looking to expand its physical space for some years to better serve the arts community and downtown Albuquerque's economic and cultural life,” said Tim Price, 516 ARTS Board of Directors Chair. “This building provides a terrific opportunity to bolster the city's local theater and arts offerings, while providing 516 ARTS with room to expand our programs and exhibitions, build our audience, and strengthen our role as the lead contemporary arts center for the city.” 

This new venue will host a variety of events and programs designed to engage a wide audience, from art enthusiasts to families and school groups. Highlights will include rotating contemporary exhibitions, engaging arts programming, performing arts space, and collaborative projects that invite community participation. The goal is to create a welcoming space where everyone can experience the transformative power of art. "This is an ideal location for a new collaborative venue; one that is close to other cultural institutions like Fusion and dynamic programming, providing a hub of activity and engagement,” said Dr. Shelle Sanchez, director of Arts & Culture. “And being adjacent to the Rail Trail will enhance accessibility and connectivity, making it a central part of the downtown arts scene.” 

Questions? Contact us at info@516arts.org