Gallery NN | t804 taller de arquitectura

Located in the heart of the Jalatlaco neighborhood in Oaxaca, Galería NN stands as a tribute to contemporary art and the unparalleled creativity of the region. This unique space, comprised of two levels of architecture and artistic expression, merges art and culture, becoming a hub of inspiration for diverse artists.

The ground floor serves as a window into the world of contemporary art. Here, various artists such as Isabel Sanchez, Raúl Herrera, Alfonso Barrera, Ana Hernandez, Ximena Alarcón, Alberto "el negro" Ibáñez, Daniel Villela, Cecilia Gutiérrez, Manuel Miguel, and Manuel Escobar, to name a few, have found a unique space to express their art. They showcase their works to visitors through the iconic courtyard, hallways, and every corner of the gallery, providing an environment that breathes creativity.

Designing this gallery was undoubtedly a challenge. From the beginning, we were tasked with respecting the pre-existing structure without damaging or removing any structural elements, such as the columns in the central courtyard. We also had to respect existing construction and vegetation elements while making the gallery and workshop removable (hence the choice of its main material: steel) due to it being a rented space. This led to a meticulous approach to architecture, aiming to create a supportive environment that allows the artworks to take center stage.

Architectural lighting was planned to emphasize every stroke and nuance of the spaces, immersing visitors in a unique visual journey. The main focus was undoubtedly architectural lighting for the hallways, where most of the art is displayed, and where art converges with artistic concepts through white canvases and dimmable lighting used via adjustable luminaires on a linear rail system.

Through the proportion and rhythm of the architectural elements used, we conceived the balance of space to achieve harmony. Linear architectural elements such as railings, sliding windows, structures, ceilings, and columns were employed to adapt to the existing space, ensuring that artistic expressions were not overshadowed. Sustainability was considered by incorporating sliding louvers on the upper floor for natural ventilation, varying heights, and the use of translucent covers to naturally illuminate workshop spaces. Pre-existing vegetation was preserved, and the ability to be a removable space was maintained.

A central element of the ground floor is its interior courtyard, an oasis of interaction and artistic contemplation. Sculptures and artworks find a natural stage here, enhancing their splendor. Chosen materials, such as gray steel and black terrazzo floors, blend with the natural elements of the courtyard, such as the deck and understated vegetation, creating synergy between art and its natural surroundings.

The upper floor is reserved for emerging talent and artists seeking a space to work on various artistic expressions, where art draws from experience and experimentation. In this space, the goal is to fade the architecture into the background, allowing artistic expression to take center stage. Artists can engage in various forms of expression, including lithography, printing, engraving, woodcuts, paintings, sculptures, and visual arts. The upper floor also houses a storage area to safeguard art during exhibition transitions.

The materiality of Galería NN becomes a sanctuary for imagination, where neutral colors, sober, and natural materials were chosen to create an environment conducive to reflection and artistic creation that connects local roots with universal art expressions. Galería NN is more than an exhibition space; it is a link between creativity and the community, a place where art becomes a shared experience for everyone. Undoubtedly, it is a place where boundaries blur, and the soul is enriched.