Today we’d like to introduce you to Selina Che and Katie Walsh
Hi Selina and Katie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Katie and Selina, both California natives, met in the summer of 2022 at a house party. Katie is a photographer from the Bay Area, and was active in the film photography scene in San Francisco and Oakland. Selina is a designer from Orange County, and grew up studying fine arts since the age of 8. They quickly became friends, exploring various pop-ups and gallery openings around LA. At a friend’s studio opening that November, they discussed the idea of creating their own space for creatives to connect. This conversation sparked their interest, and they both agreed, “If you’re down, I’m down.” This led to weeks of research and planning. By early 2023, they had registered Known Studio LLC and started looking for the perfect space.
After a six-month search, they came across an Instagram story from an artist looking for tenants to take over their lease. The space, previously a Jehovah’s Witness storefront church, was ideal for their needs. After a month and a half of renovations, Known Studio opened on August 19, 2023.
Now, one year later, they have hosted nine exhibitions featuring over 80 artists and performances by more than 15 musicians and DJs, most of whom are based in LA. In addition to their programming, Known Studio has also become a venue for private events, pop-ups, and exhibitions.
While planning and curating art shows is important, what Katie and Selina enjoy most is the sense of community and the connections formed during their opening nights, thanks to the support of local creatives.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Considering neither of us came from a traditional art background, it was a bit of a learning curve to enter into and understand the art world. Thankfully, the LA art community has been warm and welcoming, and we’ve become good friends with fellow gallerists and artists who have helped guide us. Our main obstacle has been figuring out where Known Studio fits in the landscape of LA galleries, what our niche is as well as how we can pave our own path.
As you know, we’re big fans of Known Studio. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Inspired by the artists and creatives in our community, Known Studio was established to provide a space for the next generation of emerging artists. We also open up our space to rent for pop-up events and private gatherings.
What distinguishes our programming from other galleries is our commitment to showcasing the work of younger and early-career artists. Our opening nights often transform into vibrant arts parties, featuring live performances and attracting crowds of 100 to 300 people. At Known Studio, we embrace experimentation and challenge the traditional notions of a “pristine” gallery, as well as the long-standing classism within the art world. We are proud when we hear that those who attend our exhibitions leave with a feeling of warmth, inspiration and inclusivity.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
We believe that it’s not luck, but our clear intentions, hard work and dedication to Known Studio’s mission that have enabled us to thrive and attract the community we desire.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.weareknownstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareknownstudio
Image Credits
Paasha Motamedi
Katie Walsh
Landon Yost
Aleks Sarcev
