Hallwalls Contemporary Art Centre, Buffalo

Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center, founded in 1974 in Buffalo, has long stood as a hub for boundary-pushing, interdisciplinary art. Born in a converted ice-packing warehouse known as the Essex Art Center, the space was the brainchild of a collective of young artists including Charles Clough, Robert Longo, Cindy Sherman, and several others. The name "Hallwalls" comes from the literal hallway that once separated-and more importantly, connected-the studios of Clough and Longo. That founding spirit of collaboration and experimentation continues to drive the institution today.

From the start, Hallwalls set out to be a space where contemporary artists of all stripes-visual, literary, musical, cinematic, and performative-could engage critically with cultural and social issues, unrestricted by commercial influence. It has long emphasized inclusivity and diversity, showcasing work that reflects and challenges the complexities of contemporary life, often referencing Buffalo’s post-industrial identity.

In 2006, Hallwalls found a new home on Delaware Avenue, inside a former Methodist church purchased by musician Ani DiFranco. Now sharing space with Righteous Babe Records, Hallwalls has continued to thrive as a multi-platform arts center.

The roster of artists and performers who’ve appeared here reads like a who's who of experimental culture: Kathy Acker, Glenn Branca, The Kipper Kids, Christian Marclay, and Karen Finley, to name just a few. Its programming includes everything from contemporary exhibitions to co-sponsored projects like the Babel literary festival, the Spotlight on Youth open-mic series, and Artwaves on local public-access TV.