Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all New York City places

New York City, New York / Museums

White Columns

Founded in 1970, White Columns is New York City's oldest alternative art space, dedicated to showcasing emerging artists who lack gallery affiliation in a non-profit setting.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
White Columns
whitecolumns.org, og_image_whitecolumns.org

What is White Columns known for?

White Columns is New York City's oldest alternative art space and is primarily known for showcasing emerging artists who are not affiliated with galleries.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, White Columns is a not-for-profit gallery that is open to the public free of charge eleven months per year.

What are the hours?

Summer public hours are Tuesday through Friday, from 11 AM to 6 PM.

Where is it located?

It is located at 91 Horatio Street, New York, NY 10014, between West and Washington Street, adjacent to the High Line and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

Do I need an appointment to visit?

No, appointments are not necessary for visits.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

White Columns stands as New York City's oldest alternative art space, established in 1970 by a collective of artists that included Gordon Matta-Clark and Jeffrey Lew. Originally known as the 112 Workshop or 112 Greene Street, the organization began its journey in the SoHo neighborhood before evolving into the entity known today. It officially adopted the name White Columns upon moving to Spring Street in 1980. Throughout the decades, the gallery has migrated across Manhattan to remain at the center of the art scene. It relocated to Christopher Street in 1991 and later moved to the border of the Meatpacking District and West Village in 1998. In April 2018, the space reopened at its current address, 91 Horatio Street, placing it strategically adjacent to the High Line and the Whitney Museum of American Art. Primarily devoted to up-and-coming artists who are not affiliated with commercial galleries, White Columns provides an experimental platform for art. Its programming includes a continuous cycle of screenings, talks, projects, and exhibitions. To support the broader art community, the organization once operated a slide registry for emerging talent, which has since transitioned into a curated online artist registry. Beyond its physical walls, the gallery maintains a commitment to public accessibility and historical preservation. It offers a digital archive containing exhibition materials, reviews, and unpublished images for researchers. Additionally, the gallery has extended its reach into the city's parks, such as the 2019 New York Artists’ Memorial Garden project in Jackson Square Park, which was driven by director Matthew Higgs.

Visitor tips

  • Visit Tuesday through Friday between 11 AM and 6 PM during the summer months.
  • No appointments are necessary to enter the gallery.
  • If visiting with a large group, contact the gallery in advance to request an in-person talk or tour.
  • Bring a camera to document the emerging art, as the exhibitions change frequently.

Nearby context

Located at 91 Horatio Street between West and Washington Street, White Columns is situated in a high-density art corridor. It sits immediately adjacent to the Whitney Museum of American Art and the elevated High Line park, making it an ideal companion stop for those exploring the West Village and Meatpacking District borders.

Sources

Evidence and links