YU is a non-profit contemporary art center in the Central East Side of Portland, Oregon. Our program is intended to appeal both to a specialist audience and a broader, curious public. It is led by a desire to support emerging and under-acknowledged contemporary artists, propose new modes of production, and stimulate the ongoing public discourse around art in the Pacific Northwest.
In a city and region where contemporary art and audience energy is underrepresented, YU promises to be a vibrant participatory center. Focused on building relationships and fostering dynamic art experiences, YU will be a significant cultural and artistic institution in the Pacific Northwest, as well as mark the city of Portland's place in the national and international arts landscape.
YU looks to engage artists in experimental modalities that challenge institutional conventions. YU has and will foster community engagement and promote art education by presenting gallery exhibitions, artist talks, music, performances, screenings, publications and conversations related to contemporary art.
YU will dramatically expand the arts landscape not only in the Pacific Northwest, but globally, by engaging artists from around the world in creating a new dialogue for contemporary art. Consistent with YU's experimental approach, the educational programs presented will be radical and interactive. By fostering dynamic art experiences and providing activities for families and younger audiences, YU's impact will extend beyond artistic programming into the city and civic life.
