El Barrio's Artspace PS109

Came for the annual Women on Wheels wine fundraiser with Wine on Wheels during Halloween weekend a few weeks back and was impressed by how big and accommodating the space is. We easily had about 60 people in wheelchairs plus another 20+ able bodies in the space experiencing a full wine tasting, enjoying delicious bites and having lively discussion in community. That last word is truly what this space is about and I can’t wait to come back for another event or to see what else happens here.

Participated in an art exhibition here. The place is spacious and comfortable with two levels. They also host other art related events such as theater shows, poetry readings etc.

It is a very nice place to hold events. The El Barrio Day Parade after party was held there, holding approximately 200 persons inside with an additional outdoor space. I had a great time, and it didn't have that clostfobic feeling

I had the pleasure of experiencing my first CAfED event here and it moved my soul. It's wonderful to know there's a space for artists to share and art lovers to appreciate and celebrate. I thought the main gathering space was the only area art was displayed and quickly learned there were floors of art exhibitions. The QR codes next to the art pieces allow visitors to not only learn more about the individual artist but purchase pieces. I suggest adding this to your art tour when you're in the city.

I went for a re release of a documentary type film. I didn’t get to explore the entire space, but I noticed they had varied activities taking place. Then when I looked on a screen that was in the lobby, they had an events calendar ranging from dancing, musical items and so much more. I definitely have to check it out. The space was beautiful both on the exterior and the interior. So when next looking for things to do uptown in Manhattan pop onto their site because you may find something you are interested in.

Great art space in El Barrio in a former public school. I enjoyed the current show "A Bigger Blackness" by photographer Tau Battice, documenting blackness across the Caribbean, South America, and the US.

Revisit a facility I attended Elementary School in the late 40s early 50s. Gym on the top floor is where my cousin Herman Knowings (Helicopter) of Rucker fame horned his Basketball skills. Cherish those days.

Pasteles tasting contest. Wow! Art gallery very nice. Love brick work and the intentions of the space.

El Barrios Artspace PS 109 I love to visit here whenever I remember! The artwork is so great. It's the graffiti and crochet that I love! Oh heck, I love all of it. If you're fortunate enough to be invited to an event it's a beautiful building. I can see an aerial view from my apartment window. I've taken photos of the sculptures that are at the entrance. It's such a beautiful architectural work. The details are fascinating. It's sad the mural that I photographed on May 1st, 2018 is gone. There's currently a Black and White of a Woman Holding up her fist on that wall. It's sad when my favorite murals are removed. I'm so glad I took my photos! I highly recommend you visit to get your photos before the artwork is gone.

Wonderful building and architecture from a bygone era. With it's wrought iron gates and soaring rooftops pointing to the heavens it resembles a castle. You can view some terrific artwork here. It's a an event center too which hosts poetry readings, artistic endeavors, and cultural showcases. The side of the building has a piece of photographic art with a description of it's meaning.

So far, Salsa music events, are nice and watching Puerto Rican old timers bust a Salsa move, is always a fun blast. But really, aside from the Latin dancing, the bigger picture here, are the many artists-in-residence at ArtSpace- each bringing a special flair. Instead of tearing Public School 109 down, ArtSpace saw prime real estate to fill that space with a creative edge in mind. The school was transformed into a unique oasis- offering affordable living for artists. As a collective, ArtSpace has been thriving and bringing music and art- in all respects to East Harlem- also, launching their concept in Arizona, California even in Detroit. Gargoyles greet you and black window border details, pop against bricks. A subtle hallway touch is almost, an odd throwback, to that elementary NYC public school feel, many of us know. ArtSpace is neat and clean- and I like what the place is doing and the idea behind it; but also, how they were able to upcycle a school- of all things, to breathe new life and have artists, share their passion in all forms of style.

Celebrated one of my first accomplishments here in NYC. I displayed some of my artwork and had an amazing experience and had the opportunity to engage with other artists as well. Highly recommend this place.

Great space & venue. So happy we went to see Xianix Barrera and her Flamenco Tablao show that takes place every 2nd Friday each month. What a fantastic show with singing and of course amazing Flamenco. The cozy & intimate setting made it even better. They sell wine, water, and Spaniard related items. Get tix online or via Eventbrite. Loved it!

Alright love this space. School turned into artist compound. Dance studio, theater artist space, resident gallery. Everything!!! Definitely won the lottery if you live here!!! Great courtyard too. There are no gender neutral bathrooms on any of the floors. I'd give 5stars if they had them. #letmypeoplepee

This is an absolutely beautiful space. The outside resembles a castle with big gates and beautiful architecture. The inside is a bit more modern looking but still very nice. There are rooms all over that are used for various different things. On the LL is a gallery and a smaller room which is where a recent poetry event we attended was held. The smaller room offers stage lighting and is perfect for anyone performing. There is both an elevator and several sets of stairs so you can make your way around without any hassle. Also the emergency exits do not have an alarm so you can get right outside without going through the main entrance.

El Barrio Art Space PS 109 was the perfect place to celebrate our nuptials! My husband and I had our spiritual wedding overseas earlier in the year and decided (this super crazy idea) to have a second celebration in New York for all of our friends and family that could not make it to our destination wedding. We had a strict budget. After months and months of looking for an affordable and beautiful space that represented us, we heard about El Barrio Art Space. I still remember my first conversation with property manager, Rolinda Ramos, she was so easy going and open to the idea of a wedding celebration even though they never had a wedding at the venue before. I went to check out the space a week later and didn't think twice about leaving a deposit for the full amount. It was perfect and exactly what we were looking for. Exposed brick, brushed concrete, with an artsy rustic-chic theater feel. The space has A LOT of potential. It has a sound system, theater track lighting, some tables and a lot of chairs (if needed). We rented our own tables and chairs from a Party Rental place. We paid a small additional fee to have the lighting engineer be present the day of to assist with lighting. The space fit 85 people comfortably. Our party was cocktail style so we rented about 12 or so cocktail tables, set up a bar area, DJ table and a Photo Booth! Ta-daa the party was a hit & OMG the photo ops! The place is beautiful & a steel for the price. Communication with Rolinda was so easy. Our caterer and Dj both checked out the space before the event without any problem. Since PS 109 is an artist residency and artist live in the building all events must be over by (strict policy) 10pm which, again, worked perfect for us since we had a Sunday party. Facilities team was incredible, they were there first thing in the morning cleaning up and willing to help with any questions we had regarding all things e.g. toilet paper - party rental drop off. Clean up crew was there at 10:00pm sharp. We picked up our belongings the next day and facilities had neatly put all things away for us in a storage. Thank you so much Rolinda and team for allowing us to celebrate with our families and friends. This was so special to us, we both lived in El Barrio, it has always played a big part in our relationship. We are so happy we were able to celebrate our wedding in this neighborhood in such a beautiful place!