A Fresh Canvas for Artists: How Quarters is Transforming Austin’s Art Scene

A Fresh Canvas for Artists in Austin: Quarters is Redefining the Art Scene

Austin has always prided itself on its creativity and vibrant culture, but in recent years, it’s really ramped up its game in the art scene. Believe it or not, the city is becoming a melting pot for artists from all backgrounds, looking to showcase their work beyond the traditional gallery walls.

Making the Big Move

When Ashley Blazer made the leap from Brooklyn to Austin during the rollercoaster of 2020, she was excited about the prospect of entering a less cutthroat environment. “I felt like Austin was so much more community-friendly at first,” Ashley reminisces. “It was fresh air compared to the cutthroat New York scene.” However, the artist soon discovered that Austin’s art landscape is not without its own quirks, including a hint of elitism that made finding gallery representation a bit of a challenge, particularly for artists without formal training.

Scratching the Surface of Potential

Austin has been experiencing booming growth, which has resulted in a surge of white-cube galleries popping up everywhere. But what about those emerging artists whose work doesn’t fit neatly into weekend artisan markets, yet who lack connections to break into the finer galleries? Here’s where the innovative initiative, Quarters, steps into the spotlight.

Welcome to Quarters

Birthed from the creative mind of Lindsey Schlatter, Quarters is more than just a pop-up gallery. It offers four three-month residencies each year. “I saw the absolute dire need for so many artists that don’t have a space to put their work in,” says Lindsey, who decided to create this welcoming community after working in various galleries and craving a sense of belonging among fellow artists.

A Different Kind of Coffee Shop Gallery

Quarters kicked off its very first show back in July at Civil Goat Coffee. But don’t go thinking it’s just any coffee shop art display; Lindsey’s approach is notably different. She crafts an email list jam-packed with interested buyers, connecting them with local artists to build buzz and awareness. Opening receptions not only showcase the work but help artists gain a broader audience, something many traditional galleries may overlook.

Breaking Down Barriers

The icing on the cake? Lindsey’s commission is just 30%—far below the industry standard of 50%. “As I build that, I didn’t feel that it would be appropriate for me to ask for 50%,” she says humbly, displaying a genuine commitment to support the artists she represents.

Revisiting Artist Applications

In a delightful twist, Lindsey maintains a rolling application process for artists wanting to showcase their work. “It’s never gonna be an off-bat denial,” she explains, emphasizing her desire to keep things open and accessible. She helps artists breathe new life into their unused work by curating shows that focus on intentional, conversational pieces with lasting appeal.

Setting High Standards

Lindsey is clear about her vision: “I want this to be a fine art project,” she shares. This means creating pieces that aren’t just trendy for the moment but are meant to be cherished in homes for decades. Her mission aligns perfectly with the DIY spirit of the Austin art community while still refining the process to elevate it.

Coming Together

With an eye towards the future, Lindsey plans to expand the types of spaces for showcasing art, imagining places where filmmakers and artists from various disciplines can come together. “It’s about combining forces,” she notes with excitement.

Final Thoughts

Austin’s art scene is blossoming, and initiatives like Quarters provide a much-needed platform for both established and emerging artists. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic hub of creativity, proving that there’s room for everyone in this vibrant city. So whether you’re an artist looking for a space to showcase your work or an art lover on the hunt for something special, keep an ear to the ground—the Austin art scene’s heartbeat is growing stronger every day!