New Langton Arts, Contemporary art museum in South of Market, San Francisco
New Langton Arts was a nonprofit art space in a converted industrial building, operating a gallery for exhibitions, a screening room for films, and a performance theater. The layout created separate zones where visual art, video, and live work could happen simultaneously or in sequence.
The space opened in 1975 when two artists converted a former coffin factory building into an experimental art center. This transformation of an abandoned industrial structure marked the beginning of the neighborhood's later development as an arts district.
The Performance Writing series brought together writers and performers in experimental events that felt like conversations between different art forms. These gatherings made the space feel like a meeting ground where literature and live action could challenge each other and find new meanings.
The theater space could hold up to 90 visitors and featured professional sound and lighting equipment for performances. The elevated seating arrangement ensured good views from all positions in the room.
The organization supported thousands of artists over several decades by providing direct financial grants for their work and exhibition space. This sustained commitment to funding creative practitioners made it unusual among nonprofit arts venues that often struggled with limited resources.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
