Art doesn’t survive without you.

Dear Hallwalls Supporter,

Hallwalls is now entering its second half-century. After celebrating our 50th year in 2024, we’re more certain than ever that spaces like ours are essential—and increasingly at risk.

In 1987, Hallwalls received $136,100 in support from the National Endowment for the Arts. In 2021, our final check from them was just $15,000.
Public funding has declined. But our purpose hasn’t.

For over 50 years, Hallwalls has remained one of the only spaces in downtown Buffalo dedicated to multidisciplinary, experimental, and radically open programming. We've supported more than 8,000 artists, presented over 6,500 events, and created space for dialogue, expression, and risk-taking that reverberates far beyond Western New York.

But this work doesn’t continue without you.

We want to share a story—one that captures how deeply Hallwalls can shape an artist’s journey.
Artist Julian Montague reflects:

“I first discovered Hallwalls in 1989 at 16, attending a performance by a 'cool' substitute teacher from the Buffalo Academy of Visual & Performing Arts as part of the 'Ways in Being Gay' series. It offered a glimpse into another world. Returning to Buffalo in 1997, I knew Hallwalls would be part of my learning. In 1999, I started designing event mailers, had my first public show at the 'Artists & Models' event, and soon won an ISCP residency. The work I developed there and for my solo show at Hallwalls marked the beginning of my art career. Within a year and a half, I had been reviewed in the New York Times, represented by a New York gallery, and signed with Abrams to publish my Stray Shopping Carts project as a book. Hallwalls gave me these critical opportunities based solely on the quality of my work. Designing its 50th-anniversary identity was especially meaningful, realizing I’ve been part of half its history.” – Julian Montague

This is what your support makes possible.

Your donation helps us keep our events low-cost, pay artists fairly, and remain a launch pad for creative freedom in Buffalo. You help artists at every stage of their career find space to experiment, grow, and share their work with the world.

Please consider making a gift today, before it's too late. Whether it’s $50, $100, or a recurring monthly donation, your support directly fuels our mission.

Together, we can protect this space—and ensure Hallwalls continues to uplift the next generation of artists who need room to take risks.

Thank you for standing with us.

With gratitude,
Parrish Gibbons
Deputy Executive Director
Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center