About
Under the Willow is a not for profit alternative art space located in Noe Valley, San Francisco. http://garyschefsky.wix.com/underthewillow The art and event space was launched to meet three aims: first, to launch curated exhibitions and installations featuring a multitude of art forms e.g., painting, photography, sculpture, textile and projected video; second, to create an environment where guests can experience contemporary art projects in an intimate setting; and third, to unlock a passion for collecting and enjoying art.
We welcome non-profits to partner with our art exhibitions through hosted development-oriented gatherings that coincide with our art salons. We seek non-profits that address issues relating to an engagement with nature, local and global environmental issues and those that support the sustainability of indigenous cultures and artistic practices around the world.
The Space
Launched in 2014, Under the Willow's exhibition space comprises the entire lower floor of a private residence situated in San Francisco's Noe Valley neighborhood with views to the Mission District, San Francisco Bay, and Berkeley Hills beyond. It includes a terraced garden, which features reclaimed redwood decks, handmade wooden benches, and stone sculptural planters. The artist-executed geometric concrete planter with its inlaid impression of lath reveals at once the materiality and deconstruction of the built environment.
It is the freedom found within this tucked away haven that lends itself so well to artists who are eager to push their practice to a higher, or previously unimagined, level. It is also a rare opportunity for artists to work on site-specific projects and commissions.
The minimal, cube-shaped space is designed for maximum flexibility. One 18 foot wall includes an Arakawa hanging art system and a wall mounted projector that can throw a large video image. Video and sound ports are wired throughout the room to a central media closet allowing multiple options for a sleek multi-channel video display, a projection screen is also available in the large, low-swaying Willow Tree. A tall vertical cut-out and cube within a cube cubby allow for unique sculptural installations.
