there-there: new production platform and exhibition space opens in East Hollywood

A new production company and exhibition space called there-there has opened in East Hollywood, founded by artist Anthony James and curator Lauri Firstenberg. Located at the corner of Fountain Avenue and Catalina Street, the space is part of the redevelopment of the historic Merrick Building by Site Specific. There-there functions as a hybrid curatorial platform, production center, and consultancy, aiming to realize ambitious projects including exhibitions, films, editions, and works with local and international artists. The space opened recently and will present its program in September. Firstenberg, who has worked in the nonprofit sector for over two decades and continues cultural philanthropy for various foundations, stated that the name is taken from Gertrude Stein's 'there is no there there,' reflecting a desire to recalibrate and create a new model for collaborating with artists at this historical moment.