Litmus Gallery & Studios

Litmus is a a lovely gallery and artist co-​working space on the backside of The Depot. It’s easy to miss or even NEVER see, as its location doesn’t bring in a lot of foot traffic. However, if you know where you look, you’ll actually be surprised how convenient it is to the typical Depot activities [neighbors to Deep South and around the corner from The Junction Bar & Salon].
The space seems small from the outside and can be a little misleading, but once you’re inside you have the option of starting in the small gallery space to the right, which rotates artists monthly, or walking down the narrow hallway to the back. You’ll pass multiple rooms on your left and right that local artists have rented out as their studios. It’s the same concept of 311 Gallery in Raleigh or The Golden Belt in Durham and they put on some stellar First Friday events [a table stocked with finger foods and LOTS of boxed and bottled wines!]. They’ve got all sorts of artists including someone who creates busts and clay modes that bring to mind work from the Greek and Roman period [there was also an advertisement requesting for NUDE models, so if that’s your calling in life, here’s your place!] Lots of photography, mixed media, pottery and paintings were in the mix and the space was welcoming although I noted that you had to begin the conversation if you want to learn about the space. Overall, a great space to add to your First Friday tour and a little hidden, which keeps the crowds down.

Very intimate and cutting edge. They have art by locals and they are not pretentious or stuffy. The prices seem very reasonable and the art is original and sometimes just ok. But any gallery that gives local artists a break is very cool in my book Come out and enjoy a stroll through this gallery.

On this First Friday weekend, I had a chance to go by Litmus and see a friend’s opening of her artwork exhibition with a small reception. Upon going there and finding out what they are doing for the artists in the area, I have to say I am a fan of their work and concept.
Upon inspection in the inside, it is a very simple modest venue. Though it is not in an upscale category, it is a nice simple place for local artists to show their art and grow their talents. I say grow their talents because as you look around inside, you see what the «studios» part of the name is about. In the majority of the space, there are large stalls or mini-​studios that are available to rent by local artists so they can have a private place to pursue their muse. Maybe their body of work has outgrown their home or they just need to be around their peers, but it offers a place for them to go and do their work in a environment dedicated for that purpose in whatever medium they work in. And when I found out these studio stalls were at a ridiculously low price per month, I was even more impressed.
It appears that they are about giving a great opportunity to local up-​and-​coming as well as more experienced artists to make use of their talent and pursue their passion, as well as display the results when completed. Because of this, I am a fan of Litmus Gallery & Studios and wish them well in their endeavors.