Contracommon

CONTRACOMMON is an artist-run, artist-led nonprofit that supports and encourages artists in a collaborative setting. Members volunteer their time and expertise to create exciting exhibits and events that connect individual artists to their community, and foster opportunities for professional development. Through a partnership with the Hill Country Galleria, Contracommon operates an experimental gallery space, which provides affordable workspace for emerging artists, and access to facilities to support artists’ professional practices.

OUR MISSION
Contracommon will be the leading hub for the arts in Central Texas, empowering emerging artists through community, collaboration, and creative exploration.

OUR COMMUNITY
In 2018, a multidisciplinary group of artists conceived an idea - a groundbreaking space to support and advance emerging artists in Central Texas. Contracommon launched in August 2018 as an experimental gallery space, with artist studios, and a communal workshop. The founding members procured a low-cost facility for the nonprofit art space through an innovative partnership with the Hill Country Galleria, an outdoor shopping center west of downtown Austin, Texas. Members rolled up their sleeves and made extensive renovations to the building. In early 2019, the gallery and a few studios opened. After further renovation, more studios and communal spaces opened in mid-2020. Through this programming and our facility, Contracommon has created a growing community of emerging artists and arts advocates. We are building a supportive network of resources and equipment that elevates artists' practices and encourages creative exploration.

OUR GOAL
Contracommon is growing! We are introducing two new programs in 2024. The CONNECT. Program allows non-studio members access to our facilities—including our wood shop, printing press, photo studio, and more—as well as training on how to use our equipment. With our Summer Teen Series, we are guiding teens as they strengthen their artistic skills and explore how these skills can be carried into their futures. These two programs widen the public's access to our beautiful facilities and help further our mission of supporting emerging artists. With this expansion, the need for financial support increases.

With these crowdfunds going to operating expenses, Contracommon will be able to continue offering free and accessible exhibitions, events, workshops, and open calls for artists. Donations will support our year-round programming featuring both local and visiting emerging artists. 
You can check out some of our past exhibitions here.