Rush Arts Gallery + Resource Center is a core program of the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, a 501 © 3 organization founded in 1995 by brothers Russell, Danny and Joseph “Rev. Run” Simmons. RAG—headed by Curatorial Director, Nico Wheadon—is dedicated to providing exhibition opportunities to the emerging artistic community and also exposes disadvantaged urban youth to contemporary arts and culture through educational programming initiatives sponsored in part by a grant from the New York State Council for the Arts.
In the 90s, the mission of Rush Arts Gallery was to provide resources and support to early career, non-commercial artists of color who lacked representation in Chelsea’s art district. Since it’s establishment, this mission has been expanded to support the diverse creative practices of the entire emerging artistic community, including artists, curators and writers from around the globe. Rush Arts Gallery provides an inclusive space for new audiences and promotes experimental ventures in visual production, curatorial work, performance and community involvement.
The gallery’s Resource Center is equally progressive and donates the use of its space for events in all disciplines, with one-night events or fundraisers ranging from fashion shows and magazine release parties to grassroots fundraisers and educational lectures. In 2008, the Gallery was awarded the Mayor’s Award for Arts and Culture from the department of Cultural Affairs for its pioneering programming.