The Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. Our mission is to help artists develop professionally and deliver programs that connect art to community in innovative, inclusive, and impactful ways.

Community is important to us, whether that’s our members supporting one another or BWAC partnering with allied arts groups such as Art Yard Bklyn, Red Hook Open Studios, BCAT, and community resources like the Red Hook Public Library. We strive to make the experience of art accessible to all through classes and workshops, gallery talks, and performance events that are inexpensive or free.

Organized in 1978 by sixteen artists looking for a place to exhibit, BWAC has grown to become Brooklyn’s largest artist-run organization. We take pride in our all-volunteer operation, where our artist-members serve as management, leadership, and board.

Formerly located in a 25,000 sq. ft. warehouse on the Red Hook waterfront, BWAC is currently seeking a new home after a devastating building-wide fire that occurred on September 17, 2025.