OFFCenter Community Arts Project

OFFCenter Community Arts is a place to make art, buy art, and meet new friends. We've been building community through artmaking since 2001 in Albuquerque's downtown neighborhood! a private non-profit, 501©3 organization.

OFFCenter’s mission is to promote positive self-identity and resilience through artistic expression by providing a safe, fully accessible studio that encourages meaningful social interaction – especially to enhance the lives of those most marginalized in our community.

Founded in September 2001 by Art Therapist and open studio pioneer Janis Timm-Bottos, OFFCenter exists as a precious resource within Albuquerque's downtown community offering creative growth and respite, art sales opportunities and positive social interactions for a diverse cross-section of Albuquerque residents. Drawing on principals of Art Therapy, Counseling, and Art Education, the goal of our studio is to promote the general welfare of those who participate by encouraging everyone to find, to explore and if desired, to share imagery they find authentic and resonant.

OFFCenter provides a safe, well-equipped, stimulating art studio for the general public where everyone is welcomed to participate in a wide variety of art making activities free of charge. While primarily a drop-in visual arts studio, program offerings also include weekly drawing and painting classes, a writing group, basic guitar class, regular First Friday night musical performances, exhibit openings, a sales shop and professionally equipped frame shop.

OFFCenter is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and operated by 3 part-time employees. 70% of all participating artists are of low income and ~60% of all participants live in poverty. The majority of our operating funds are raised through private donations and fundraising activities. Program grants for our work with under-served populations contribute additional income.