Rochester Contemporary Art Center facts for kids
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| Established | 1977 |
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| Location | 137 East Ave Rochester, New York 14607 |
| Type | Art museum |
| Public transit access | Rochester Transit Service |
The Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo) is a special place for art in Rochester, New York. It is a non-profit organization, which means it uses its money to help the community, not to make a profit. RoCo started in 1977 and is a hub for new ideas and art.
This art center shows and supports all kinds of contemporary art. Contemporary art is art made in our time, often by living artists. RoCo is famous for its yearly 6x6 exhibition. It also hosts popular "Makers & Mentors" shows. These shows bring together great teachers and their students. RoCo also has many other art shows and works with other art groups.
What is the History of RoCo?
The art center began in 1977. It was first called Pyramid Arts Center. Tony Petracca and Gina Mosesson started it. In its early years, the center moved around a lot. It was in different shops and warehouses in Rochester.
In 2001, the center changed its name to Rochester Contemporary Art Center. It also moved to its current home. This building is in Rochester's East End District. In 2007, RoCo started "First Friday." This is a monthly art night across the city. Up to 30 other art places in Rochester join in. In 2012, RoCo bought its building. It also started a fundraising effort called "The Future Fund." This helped them buy the building.
Today, RoCo has over 850 members. About 60% of these members are artists. These artists can show their work in a special yearly exhibition. The center has several big shows each year. It also hosts many smaller shows, performances, and events.
What is the 6x6 Exhibition?
In 2008, RoCo started a unique art show called 6x6. This show has become very popular around the world. Each year, thousands of small artworks arrive. These artworks are made and given by many people. Famous artists, designers, students, and even kids send in art.
Every artwork is exactly 6 inches by 6 inches square. The artists sign their work only on the back. This means the art is shown without anyone knowing who made it. All artworks sent in are accepted and displayed. They are all sold for $20 each. The money helps support the art center. Buyers can purchase art at the gallery or online. The artist's name is only revealed after the art is bought. There is no fee to send in your artwork.
Many famous people have sent art to 6x6. These include artists like George Condo and Albert Paley. Writers like Andrea Barrett have also contributed. Musicians like Philip Glass and dancers like Garth Fagan have too. Even local leaders like Louise Slaughter and Lovely A. Warren have taken part.
See also
- Rochester's Culture and Recreation
- List of museums in New York
- Memorial Art Gallery
