The Art Base Announces New Community Space: The Art Commons

An inviting, creative gathering space opens in the Art Base storefront.

The Art Base is excited to announce the opening of a new community-centered space within its gallery: The Art Commons. Located in the Art Base storefront, this new environment invites visitors of all ages and abilities to relax, create, and connect through art in an informal, inclusive setting.

Designed in response to ongoing community feedback and inspired by the idea of art as a shared, everyday experience, the Art Commons reflects the heart of the Art Base’s mission: fostering creative expression through accessible, community-driven programs. The space offers a flexible, creativity-forward atmosphere where visitors are encouraged to walk in and play, read, gather, reflect, or make art at their own pace.

Programming in the Art Commons will rotate regularly and include both facilitated and self-guided art-making experiences inspired by current exhibitions, local artists, seasonal themes, and community partnerships. Prompts and materials will be available in both English and Spanish, and the space is fully ADA accessible. Visitors can also explore creative resources such as books, art exchange, and pop-up activations led by artists and collaborating organizations.

“The Art Commons is designed to lower barriers to creativity,” said Executive Director Annie Henninger. “By transforming our storefront into a visual invitation, we are creating space for broader access and community connection.”

The Art Commons is also informed by the concept of the storefront as a civic-facing space, drawing inspiration from Storefront, a project by Olson Kundig Architects (2011–2013), which explored how public-facing architecture can invite curiosity, interaction, and exchange.

The Art Commons will continue to evolve through experimentation, learning, and community input. As with all Art Base initiatives, the space is grounded in the belief that art is for everyone, that creativity is a fundamental part of being human, and that shared artistic experiences strengthen community connection.