D.I.Y. in the District

Exhibit Dates: October 4—December 7, 2025
Exhibit Location: MLK Library, Great Hall

Artist-run. Homegrown. Non-commercial. Multi-media. Experimental. A D.I.Y. (Do It Yourself) art space is usually all of these things - and yet no single definition applies to all. This exhibition celebrates key galleries and exhibition spaces in Washington, D.C. from the 1970s to present day that represent the boundless creativity, resourcefulness, and experimentation of artists working in storefronts, row houses, converted offices, and other unlikely spaces in a federal city known for its national museums and colorful, tranquil abstract paintings. Artist-run spaces flip the script on stereotypes and simplified ideas about culture in the nation’s capital. Though real estate, the cost of living, and lack of investment in the arts are abiding challenges, these spaces have supported generations of artists as they find community and test and develop their ideas.  

Produced in collaboration with Rhizome D.C. and other partners, this exhibit will transform the Great Hall of MLK Library into a celebration of the artist-run and D.I.Y. arts scene in the District from the 1970s through the present day.

Check out Transformer’s booth in the exhibition!