New York City’s vacant storefronts often seem like a blight on the city’s landscape, but one nonprofit is changing that with its innovative art exhibitions. Art on the Ave has taken over empty storefronts in various neighborhoods to showcase local artists’ work, bringing community cohesion and engagement to these areas.
Founded by Barbara Anderson during the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization aims to bring art to communities where it’s scarce. The latest exhibition, “Here, Now, Always: Everybody’s Neighborhood,” is now on display at the Alfred E. Smith Houses complex on the Lower East Side. This exhibit features works from five local artists, including photographer Ivy Shields and painter Peter Passuntino.
Anderson’s goal is to provide a platform for hyper-local artists to share their work with the community. “We strive very hard to have as many hyper-local artists as we can,” she said. “It makes such a difference to people walking by to see art that they can relate to.”
The exhibit also includes programming, such as painting events and an art walk tour for older residents. Two of the artists featured in the exhibit live at the Smith Houses complex, where a laundromat, doctor’s office, and fast-food restaurant once occupied the space.
Anderson’s work has already had a significant impact on the struggling arts community. Artists like Naderson St. Pierre, who was living on the streets for months before finding a studio space through Art on the Ave, have reported improved lives since participating in the program.
Since its inception in 2020, Art on the Ave has facilitated over $415,000 in sales for participating artists. Anderson’s mission is to bring people together through art, and her work is being recognized by city officials and other organizations.
With exhibits like “Here, Now, Always: Everybody’s Neighborhood,” Art on the Ave is changing the face of vacant storefronts across New York City, transforming them into vibrant hubs of community engagement and artistic expression.
Source: https://www.thecity.nyc/2025/08/14/revive-nycha-spaces-with-art-ave