Current State Studio, a nonprofit organization founded in 2024, is challenging the norms of the traditional art world. Based between Los Angeles and New York, the studio offers a unique platform for emerging artists, especially those who are often overlooked by the commercial art industry. Rather than following the conventional gallery model, Current State Studio provides space, resources, and visibility to artists at various stages of their careers, focusing on cultural identity, material experimentation, and alternative modes of art presentation.

A Platform for Artistic Experimentation

Unlike traditional art spaces that typically showcase finalized works, Current State Studio is designed to encourage artistic experimentation. The studio believes in the importance of the creative process—artists are given the freedom to experiment, make mistakes, and take risks. By prioritizing the journey rather than the finished product, Current State Studio offers a rare opportunity for young creators to be seen and recognized for their raw, unpolished work.

This focus on process over perfection aligns with the studio’s core philosophy: art is a living, evolving experience, and artists should be celebrated at every stage of their development, not just when their work is complete. Whether an artist is still refining their ideas or exploring new mediums, Current State Studio is a place where they can showcase their work and grow, free from the pressure of having to present a perfect final product.

The Core Philosophy: The State of Becoming

The name “Current State Studio” embodies the organization’s philosophy: art is never a fixed outcome but rather a state of constant transformation. This concept challenges the commercial art world, where the focus is often placed on market-ready, finalized works. Current State Studio shifts the narrative, placing value on the moments when artists are questioning, evolving, and defining their craft.

In this environment, the artists working with Current State Studio are allowed to define their creative journeys. The studio encourages them to explore materials, cultures, and disciplines without the fear of judgment or commercialization. This approach opens up opportunities for artists to experiment freely, taking their work in unexpected and meaningful directions.

Beyond the Traditional Gallery Model

Current State Studio stands out because it creates an alternative ecosystem for emerging artists, one that operates outside of the traditional gallery structure. By placing collaboration over competition and emphasizing dialogue over silence, the studio fosters a sense of community among artists. Rather than competing for attention in an overcrowded market, artists working with Current State Studio are encouraged to engage with each other, share ideas, and build a supportive network.

This community-oriented approach also extends to the studio’s commitment to cultural nuance. The organization works with artists whose work crosses cultural identities and challenges the boundaries between craft and contemporary art. By celebrating diverse voices and unique artistic expressions, Current State Studio helps to ensure that underrepresented artists have the visibility and resources they need to thrive.

“Of Seeing and Be Seen”: A Thought-Provoking Exhibition

In October 2025, Current State Studio held its debut exhibition, Of Seeing and Be Seen, at Crossing Art in Manhattan. The exhibition, which ran from October 2–7, explored the politics of observation and presence. Featuring lacquer, wood, photography, installation, and spatial interventions, the show raised important questions about what it means to be seen and the power dynamics involved in visibility.

The exhibition highlighted the vulnerability that comes with being observed, especially for marginalized artists who are often left out of mainstream art spaces. Through their work, the artists invited the audience to reflect on the complexities of visibility, withdrawal, and the politics of presence. In doing so, the exhibition exemplified Current State Studio’s commitment to showcasing the artistic process—not just finished works—and emphasizing the vulnerability that comes with sharing one’s art with the world.

Public Engagement and Collaboration

Beyond providing a space for artists to create, Current State Studio also encourages public engagement and collaboration. The studio understands that art is not isolated—it thrives in a community where ideas are shared and where dialogue takes place. By hosting exhibitions, residencies, and workshops, Current State Studio creates an ecosystem where artists can develop their practice while interacting with a broader audience.

This collaborative spirit is essential to the studio’s mission. By giving artists the chance to present their work on larger stages, both locally and internationally, Current State Studio provides an avenue for emerging artists to expand their networks and gain exposure in a competitive field. The studio’s efforts ensure that young artists are not only creating but are also equipped with the tools and opportunities to succeed in a global art scene.

A Commitment to Growth and Visibility

Since receiving its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2025, Current State Studio has expanded its mission to include a variety of initiatives aimed at nurturing and supporting emerging artists. These programs include educational workshops, artist residencies, and curated exhibitions that allow artists to continue refining their craft while engaging with the public.

At the heart of Current State Studio’s work is a commitment to ensuring that artists are seen—not just when their work is finished or market-ready, but at every stage of their development. By providing a platform where artists can experiment and grow, the studio plays a crucial role in shaping the future of contemporary art.

Join the Movement

As Current State Studio continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to building a more inclusive and dynamic art world. For emerging artists seeking a space to create and be seen, Current State Studio offers a unique, supportive environment where their work can thrive, regardless of where they are on their artistic journey.

To learn more about Current State Studio and explore opportunities to get involved, visit their Instagram.