W139, Art gallery in red light district, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
W139 is an art gallery inside a former theatre building on Warmoesstraat with spacious exhibition areas for contemporary art installations. The interior has high ceilings and open floor plans that allow artists to display large and ambitious works.
A collective of five young artists founded W139 in 1979 by occupying an empty theatre building to position itself against commercial art institutions. This founding marked the start of a long-term commitment to experimental and unconventional artistic practices.
The space is run by artists themselves, allowing local and international creators to organize exhibitions that continuously reshape contemporary art. This approach draws people interested in artistic experimentation and creative freedom.
The space is located on Warmoesstraat and is open daily from noon to 6 PM, with free admission to all exhibitions. The building offers ground-level access, though visitors should allow time to explore the large interior spaces and different exhibition setups.
The gallery received the Amsterdam Prize of the Arts, recognizing its sustained efforts to support experimental art forms and emerging artists. This award underscores its role as a vital venue for artistic innovation in the city.
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