Subterranean Arthouse

The Sub is a very special place: a community arthaus. A place to go because there’s a concert by someone i know is great. Or for a private Halloween costume/​scary story telling/​dance party. At which i see beautiful art by local artists i never heard of on the walls. At which i always see someone i know, or several someones. #oakland #art #community

I just produced my first event at the Arthouse. Nicole and Claire were fantastic hosts. They helped me on all levels — timing, set up, tech. They were gracious and professional throughout. I really appreciated their flexibility and clarity. They are excellent communicators.

By far one of the best spaces I’ve produced an event at. The staff was helpful, attentive and courteous. The layout is cozy, while still being very architectural, and you will, flat out, not find a better deal on renting a venue. I would do many more events here – and probably will.

This is a quintessential Berkeley art/​music/​community gathering venue, noticeably less crunchy than someplace like Ashkenaz, but equally embracing of the whole peace-​love-​unity vibe. It’s a small space, with gallery area in the front (converted into a performance space, when necessary), and a back room with kitchen and bathroom (turned into a wine & mingling station, when necessary). The two areas are separated by a curtain, which makes it even more Berkeleyesque. It’s almost like hanging at a friend’s house.
We went for a lecture + music performance by a couple local bands, and although the space isn’t set up perfectly for this type of thing (it gets easily crowded, and the lights are on way too bright), it ended up being a unconventionally cool venue to take it in. An added bonus was the $ 5 glasses of wine for sale in the kitchen. Even cheap wine makes most any event more enjoyable.
The one weird thing I can’t get out of my head was my moment of panic in the bathroom, where a little sign said «flushing can be heard during performances»…errrr, I guess you can only hope that you flush during a high note.

I love the subterranean! Such a great vide within these walls. They put on great music shows and they have the best dance floor in Berkeley. They have amazing art on the walls too. If you haven’t been mos def check out. It’s a hidden gem.

Subterranean Arthouse is a downtown Berkeley gem. They offer the most innovative art installations, musical performances, dance performances, theater, private events, and classes. The directors are super sweet and helpful. They are so committed to bringing amazing art and performances to downtown Berkeley. Also, the space is absolutely beautiful.