Mercury Project is a contemporary art building in the Southtown Arts District of San Antonio founded by Antonia Richardson and Warren Borror in 2013. The two wanted a workplace that would foster creativity and growth for local artists. The Mercury Project works to support newcomers who are getting out into the art world.
When entering the Mercury Project, visitors are greeted with a warm and supportive environment and walls full of art. The people make the space inviting. When galleries and shows are hosted, one can sense a true collaborative spirit ring through the venue’s air. The artists and curators are always open to talking to guests, which helps to make things feel less intimidating. The art world can seem scary and vast, but Mercury Project works to create an ideal atmosphere for upcoming artists and curious locals.
“They wanted it to be a jumping-off point for beginner artists, who need support and a gallery to showcase their work,” says Rikkianne Van Kirk.
Van Kirk has worked with the Mercury Project since 2018; she plays a vital role as the studio and property manager. This art studio serves as a mixed-use space with an art gallery, art studio spaces and residential buildings, which Rikkianne works to manage.
Since she has been living above the studio for a while, she has witnessed the tenants work together and collaborate over the years.
“I think it’s really neat,” Van Kirk said. “You walk down here [and] someone is painting. Someone is constructing a bed. You hear people talking about art shows.”
The studios serve as a creative outlet for the artists who rent them out, but they still maintain their professional aspects because these creators are paying to be there.
“It’s cool. It’s creative. It’s inspirational and supportive, but it’s also serious,” Van Kirk stated. “It’s a very professional area. They pay for this space, so they have to work. It’s respectful because you have fun and are creative, but you are working.”
The artists “bring this area to life” as they manage the galleries and host their shows. “They bring the building alive with exhibitions, photoshoots, yoga, community choir in the gallery [and] lots of interactive stuff,” Van Kirk explains.
The artists who pay to work at Mercury are entitled to free gallery use each month and can do whatever they want with their time. “They can serve workshops, they can use the space to the best of their ability. It is run by them completely.”
Mercury Project constantly has interactive events for the general public. Checking out their Instagram will give an idea of what shows pop up throughout the month, for their open gallery hours are dependent on when the artists are hosting shows. It serves as a great space for young artists to take inspiration from and see what the San Antonio art world is like. It is genuinely an inviting place if someone does not know how to get out there and connect with the community. Good conversation, connection and information are shared underneath the roof of Mercury Project.
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