Our Story
WhiteBox, the original alternative art space in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, was founded 24 years ago by a group of international emigre artists, architects, and intellectuals. This collective sought to address the New York art scene's lack of focus on social, political, and international engagement. Over the years, WhiteBox has evolved from an artist-run space in Chelsea to a vibrant cultural hub in the Lower East Side and now in Alphabet City, East Village.
Throughout its journey, WhiteBox has served as a platform for contemporary artists, fostering site-specific works, exhibitions, and educational programs that engage with the local community and beyond. The organization has embraced diverse cultural narratives, particularly focusing on underserved Latino/Hispanic and Afro-Caribbean communities, while promoting youth education in the arts and urban sustainability.