Rear Alley, 516 8th Street, SE
From a press release:
“Founded in 2009, The Fridge quickly became a vital gathering space for street artists, poets, muralists, and creative voices often excluded from traditional art institutions. Known for its zero-gatekeeping policy and commitment to community, the gallery helped launch over 1,000 creative careers and hosted exhibitions, music showcases, and public mural projects that defined an era of DC underground art.
After closing in 2023 due to rising costs and a complicated legal battle, The Fridge, a beloved Capitol Hill arts space, is preparing for a long-awaited return to its original home behind Barracks Row. Alex’s late-father always used to tell him “This is America, anyone can sue anyone for anything, if it is true or not.” Then Alex learned those in real life when he tried to sell the building. The buyer attempted to sue in order to get the building for a lesser price.
A new GoFundMe campaign titled “Reopen The Fridge Art Gallery: Same Location. New Era.” seeks to raise $50,000 by October 1 to fund repairs, renovations, and expanded community programming, with the goal of reopening by 2026.
In its first week live the GoFundMe raised over $7,000!
“This isn’t just a gallery reopening,” say organizers. “It’s a return to the community that sparked it all and a chance to build something even bigger.”
“When we talk about keeping DC weird, The Fridge is the real thing,” said Julianne Brienza, founder of the DC Fringe Festival. “It’s one of our last independent art spaces still standing, holding the line for experimentation, risk, and community. I’ve spent the past year writing a book about building a permanent space like this, and I can tell you, it doesn’t happen without people stepping up. If The Fridge has ever surprised you, moved you, or just made you feel like you belonged, now is the time to show up and support it.”
Philippa Hughes, founder of Curiosity Connects Us, added:
“The Fridge fills an essential gap in Washington, D.C.’s creative ecosystem, a place where artists can experiment and express freely in a truly welcoming environment. Through our exciting partnership with The SPACE Free Art For All, we’re not only bringing back this beloved hub of artistic expression but expanding it into a holistic space for connection, growth, and innovation. I’m thrilled to see this new chapter unfold and witness the magic that will emerge from this dynamic collaboration.”
In a full-circle moment, The Fridge will reopen in collaboration with The SPACE: Free Art For All, a nonprofit creative wellness center founded by Shaymar Higgs. Higgs got his start at The Fridge in 2009 after attending a pop-up show co-sponsored by the gallery. Recognized for his hand-sewing and creative skills, he was invited to intern and later helped bring nonprofit partners and youth arts programming into the space.
Higgs went on to found The SPACE in 2018 as a three-week pop-up, which has since grown into a thriving community organization offering free workshops, mental health-centered art programs, 3D printing, digital design, and youth entrepreneurship training.
“Now, more than any other time in my life, is the time that we create and protect space for artists to do the work of connecting us to our humanity and imagination,” said Sheldon, a local artist and longtime Fridge collaborator. “Those are the strongest tools we need to build our better future. Having The Fridge back as a lab for this work is exactly the war room we need.”
Together, The Fridge and The SPACE will reopen the gallery and expand programming to include:
Free public art workshops and exhibitions
Digital design, 3D printing, and laser engraving labs
Youth entrepreneurship and workforce development
Community mural projects
Mental health-centered creative practices for all ages
The reopening in 2026 will mark a new chapter for The Fridge as it returns to its original location and brings even more inclusive programming to the city.
Supporters can donate and learn more at the GoFundMe here.
Donation perks include exclusive art prints, limited edition t-shirts, framed works by featured artists, and event rental opportunities.”