Our Mission
ArtUs Co is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization run by a collective of artists in support of the arts in austin, tx. we provide affordable spaces to create, and opportunities for artists to showcase and sell their work. we aim to bridge the gap between art collectors and artists, creating an inclusive space where art and culture can thrive, inspire, and be celebrated.
How We Do It
Artist Studios
We have 11 studio spaces in the Arboretum. ArtUs Co strives to build a community where artists can affordably create and collaborate. Fill out an application to be added to our waitlist and notified of open spots.
Gallery
We are dedicated to featuring artists in our gallery to provide an opportunity for them to showcase and sell their work. We aim to host exhibits and events that inspire and connect us.
Are you looking to start your art collection or grow it? Visit our gallery and studios.
Classes / Workshops
We are passionate about spreading art and nurturing creativity in our community. We lead and host classes/workshops, talks, and more for both artists and the general public.
Our History
ArtUs Co began in 2005 when our team, led by founder Josh Green, recognized the need for affordable art studio spaces in Austin. To address this, we established the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization originally known as Shady Tree Studios, which later became Pump Project. For over a decade, Pump Project provided studio spaces for more than 250 artists and hosted nearly 200 exhibitions in a 20,000-square-foot warehouse in East Austin. However, as rising real estate prices increasingly threatened art spaces, the need for a new direction became clear.
In 2019, we partnered with The Arboretum to create a fresh hub for local artists to showcase and sell their work. What began as a pop-up shop soon evolved into a long-term store, and our organization officially rebranded as ArtUs Co. This transition allowed us to expand our reach, grow our artist community, and create deeper connections between artists and collectors.
As of January 2022, ArtUs Co has been fully dedicated to our collective, offering studio spaces, a gallery, and a gift shop. In 2023, Josh Green passed the torch to Juan and Rosemary Villegas, a visionary artist couple with deep roots in the creative community. Their leadership has brought renewed energy to ArtUs Co, blending artistic curation, community-driven initiatives, and an emphasis on visionary art that expands collective consciousness.
The collective of resident artists at ArtUs Co are active participants in making it a vibrant and inspiring space, fostering collaboration, creativity, and meaningful connections. By providing exhibitions, workshops, networking opportunities, and affordable studio spaces, ArtUs Co remains dedicated to empowering artists and elevating the arts in Austin.
