A new contemporary art space is set to launch in East Austin, transforming an unassuming warehouse into a vibrant hub for creativity and inspiration. The Ostillo Art Foundation will officially open its doors on Saturday, showcasing a range of contemporary art from international artists within its sleek, industrial exterior.
Founded by Sacha Zerbib, the Ostillo Art Foundation aims to create a welcoming environment for the community, particularly for residents in the Rosewood neighborhood. In collaboration with local developer René Campos, Zerbib envisions the space as a sanctuary for nurturing minds and spirits through art.
“I always conceived a museum space to be a place where you take care of people, you take care of their brain, you take care of their spirit,” Zerbib expressed. “You take care of what they feel, what they see, and what they can get inspired from. There’s a lot of work to do, but we can do it.”
The foundation’s inaugural exhibition, titled “Masquerade,” delves into the significance of masks throughout history, highlighting their dual role in both concealing and expressing identity. The exhibit begins with a prominent painting by Glenn Ligon, which inspired the show’s name. Zerbib acknowledged that he borrowed the title from this artwork, which is part of a series influenced by James Baldwin’s essay “Stranger in the Village.”
This essay recounts Baldwin’s experiences as an African American man in a remote Swiss village, where he encountered individuals who had never seen a Black person. Zerbib noted that Ligon’s work serves as a poignant introduction to the exhibit, paying homage to Rosewood’s rich history as a center of Black culture during the era of segregation.
In addition to its role as an art gallery, the Ostillo Art Foundation will serve as the new permanent venue for the Eastside Kings Festival, a series of concerts celebrating African American blues, jazz, and gospel music scheduled for late October.
The “Masquerade” exhibit features works from artists hailing from eight different countries, including Pakistan, Germany, Colombia, Mexico, France, South Africa, Iraq, and the United States. Zerbib expressed his aspiration for the foundation to continue expanding its reach and inclusivity, welcoming artists from diverse backgrounds.
“We’re not imposing on anyone’s choices,” Zerbib stated. “We just want people to walk freely here and start engaging. And if we can inspire them, that’s wonderful.”
The Ostillo Art Foundation is located at 2600 Rosewood Ave., and admission is free.
