The Soap Factory
Contact Information
address:
514 2nd street SE
Minneapolis MN 55414
Mission
The Soap Factory is a laboratory for artistic experimentation and innovation, dedicated to supporting artists and engaging audiences through the production and presentation of contemporary art in a unique and historic environment.
Program/Services
The Soap Factory was founded as an organization in 1988 by a small group of artists as one of the first venues in the Twin Cities devoted to emerging visual art. Originally known as “No Name Exhibitions,” the organization has filled a crucial niche in the local arts community by providing a supportive environment for emerging artists. We are thoroughly artist-centered; offering audiences a visceral and immediate experience of contemporary art.
Located in the former National Purity Soap Factory, The Soap Factory building was donated to the organization by Pillsbury/Grand Met in 1995. This historic 48,000 sq. ft. wood and brick warehouse makes us one of the largest art galleries devoted to emergent practice in the nation.
The Soap Factory presents works by emerging contemporary artists from Minnesota, the US and abroad. Artists receive not only space in which to exhibit, but also stipends for showing their work, as well as support for travel, shipping, installation and accommodation. Doing so, we help position artists to continue working beyond their exhibitions, as well as offering our volunteers the opportunity to learn and work within a professional gallery environment.
Organization Homepage
Roles
Gallery, Nonprofit