Mapping Queens: Building Artist-Run Spaces

Doors: 6:00 PM | Panel: 6:30 PM

Admission: FREE   

Join us at FLUX IV for the next installment of Mapping Queens, a conversation series presented through the Queens Cultural Mapping Initiative highlighting the people and organizations shaping Queens’ cultural landscape.

Moderated by Natalie Bedon, Project Manager of the Queens Cultural Mapping Initiative, this conversation will bring together leaders behind artist-run spaces across the borough:

• Naomi Strum — Los Herederos (Jackson Heights)
• Stephanie S. Lee — The Garage Art Center (Bayside)
• Meghana Karnik — FLUX IV / Flux Factory (Long Island City)

Together, these artists and cultural leaders are creating spaces that provide opportunities for experimentation, collaboration, exhibitions, programming, and community connection, while building new models for how artists can support one another and shape the cultural life of their neighborhoods.

Panelists will share the stories behind their spaces and discuss the realities of building and sustaining artist-led initiatives, from finding and maintaining physical space to navigating funding, affordability, programming, partnerships, and long-term growth. The conversation will also explore how artist-run spaces can respond directly to the needs of local creatives and strengthen Queens’ broader cultural ecosystem.

The conversation will be followed by an audience Q&A and mixer. Drinks and light refreshments will be available.