Open Source Gallery

Open Source Gallery is an arts-based non-profit organization inspired by the open source movement. In the spirit of this free exchange of knowledge, we provide a forum where art intersects with the community and the world at large. Open Source energizes a diverse and creative community for people of all ages and backgrounds with an emphasis on expression, experimentation, sustainability, and social engagement.

In addition to monthly exhibitions, which feature conceptually-driven art from both local and international artists, we offer additional programs dedicated to creating dialogue about art in our neighborhood. During our monthly lecture series, scholars and members of the community are invited to discuss the role that art plays in the community. Every year in December during our Soup Kitchen program, artists host one night shows at Open Source and cook a meal to be shared with the community. In periodic panel discussions, the community is invited to engage in discussion with academics, artists, and experts. We also offer a highly successful educational program, KOKO, which focuses on the relationship between art, technology and sustainability, encouraging children to innovate and think critically.

In Open Source Gallery's children's program  kids are natural inventors. Through the process of making and tinkering, they build Imagination, turning trash into treasure. KoKo encourages kids to take risks, collaborate and problem solve to become independent learners.

Today Koko services 8,000 children across five boroughs. The organic nature of Koko’s foundations is key to how the program views education: at the heart of Koko’s mission is empowering kids to build a world of their own making, from the ground up.