MISSION - NEXUS/foundation for today’s art supports the exploration, presentation and consideration of experimental artwork produced by emerging artists. The NEXUS co-operative, comprised of Philadelphia-based multi-disciplinary artists, challenges artistic traditions, investigates new mediums, repurposes older concepts, and facilitates public conversation regarding the meanings and methods behind today’s art.

HISTORY - Established in 1975, NEXUS was founded by three artist/educators who sought to create an exhibition space for challenging, innovative and compelling exhibitions that stimulated creative thought and dialog among the public. Recognizing the opportunities an exhibition space like this would provide, many of Philadelphia’s most significant experimental artists were quickly attracted to NEXUS, a pattern that is still evident today. Artists use their co-operative membership to establish a reputation for themselves and many past and present members have achieved recognition and acclaim for their work inside and outside of the gallery. Since the inception of NEXUS, member artists have received nine Pew Fellowships in the arts, ten Independence Foundation Fellowships, and seven Leeway Foundation Emerging Artist awards

PROGRAMMING - Member artists, chosen through a peer review process, are given opportunities once every two years to exhibit their artwork free from commercial restrictions or censorship. Thematic exhibitions produced and conceived entirely by the artist membership, explore current topics and provide a platform for investigation by local, national and international artists. NEXUS members take an active role in educating a younger generation of artists through the NEXUSselects program. A workshop and juried show, offered annually to graduating art school seniors, provides basic tools at this transitional point in their careers. NEXUS TV, our video interview series, provides valuable insight for the curious public into what motivates and influences our exhibiting artists.

In the summer months NEXUS,s programming is devoted to the Summer Community Arts Series. This special programming provides professional gallery space to community art organizations, which in turn brings focus to their mission, adds value to their program and enriches the experience of their participants.

All of NEXUS exhibitions are free and open to the public.

Board of Directors: Anne Cecil, Chair • Chris Vecchio, PhD treasurer •
Nic Coviello • Patricia Giordano, Esq, secretary • Catherine Fox Byers •
Rebecca Gilbert • David Pierson

Executive Director: Nick Cassway

Major Supporters Nexus programs are funded in part by the Samuel S. Fels Fund, Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Philadelphia Cultural Fund, the Argosy Foundation, Winston-Salem Foundation and individual contributions from members and friends.