Located in the heart of the Jalatlaco neighborhood, Oaxaca, Galería NN stands as a tribute to contemporary art and the unparalleled creativity of the region. This unique space, composed of two levels of architecture and artistic expression, merges art and culture, becoming a hub of inspiration for diverse artists.
The ground floor serves as a window to the world of contemporary art. Here, various artists such as Isabel Sanchez, Raúl Herrera, Alfonso Barrera, Ana Hernandez, Ximena Alarcón, Alberto "el negro" Ibáñez, Daniel Villela, Cecilia Gutiérrez, Manuel Miguel, and Manuel Escobar, to name a few, have found a unique space to express their art. They showcase their works to visitors through the iconic courtyard, hallways, and every corner of the gallery, creating an atmosphere that breathes creativity.
Designing this gallery was undoubtedly a challenge. From the beginning, we were tasked with respecting the existing building, avoiding damage or removal of any structural elements such as the columns of the central courtyard. Additionally, we had to respect existing construction and vegetation elements. The gallery and workshop were designed to be removable (hence the choice of its main material, steel) since it is a rented space. This led to a meticulous approach to architecture, aiming to achieve a design that complements the space, allowing the artworks to take center stage.
Architectural lighting was planned to emphasize every stroke and nuance of the spaces, immersing visitors in a unique visual journey. The main focus was on architectural lighting for the corridors, where most of the art is displayed and where artistic concepts come together through white canvases and dimmable lighting used with directional luminaires on a linear rail system.
Through the proportion and rhythm of the architectural elements used, we conceived the balance of space to achieve harmony. Linear architectural elements such as railings, sliding windows, structures, ceilings, and columns were used, adapting to the existing space to avoid overshadowing artistic expressions. Sustainability measures included sliding louvers on the upper floor for natural ventilation, changes in heights, and the use of translucent covers to naturally illuminate workshop spaces. Pre-existing vegetation was respected, and the gallery retained the capacity to be a removable space.
A central element of the ground floor is its interior courtyard, an oasis for socializing and artistic contemplation. Here, sculptures and artworks find a natural stage that enhances their splendor. Chosen materials, such as gray steel and black terrazzo floors, blend with natural elements in the courtyard, like the deck and subdued vegetation, creating a synergy between art and its natural surroundings.
The upper floor is reserved for emerging talent and artists seeking a space to work on various artistic expressions. Here, architecture aims to fade into the background, allowing artists to immerse themselves in their creative processes. This space accommodates various expressions, including lithographs, prints, engravings, woodcuts, paintings, sculptures, and plastic arts. It also houses a storage area for art during exhibition transitions.
The materiality of Galería NN becomes a sanctuary for imagination, where neutral colors, sober and natural materials were selected to create an environment conducive to reflection and artistic creation that connects local roots with universal expressions of art. Galería NN is more than an exhibition space; it is a link between creativity and the community, a place where art becomes a shared experience for all. Undoubtedly, it's a place where boundaries blur, and the soul is enriched.
