History
Our Story
Stay’s efforts began in 2010 by a passionate group of local artists and arts advocates seeking arts and cultural experiences closer to home. At the time, there were little to no opportunities to enjoy, share and create art in the City of Downey caused by a decades-long decline in arts and cultural support and resources, following the closure of significant arts organizations such as the Downey Museum of Art and the Downey Children’s Theatre.
In February 2010, Downey residents Gabriel Enamorado and Valentin Flores organized their first joint art exhibition “Ambivalence”, featuring 200+ prints of their collective photographic works. The opening reception was held at the Downey Civic Theatre and welcomed the attendance of 800+ visitors.
With help from family, friends and local artists, they began producing grassroots pop-up art exhibitions and performances in partnership with local businesses and city events – including a second exhibition at the Downey Theatre titled “Suburban Renaissance”, an outdoor group exhibition at the annual Taste of Downey event, and a Downey & Warren High student exhibition and music performance outside of Porto’s Bakery.
The group operated under the name Downey Art Vibe (DAV), a nonprofit organization focused on civic and social engagement. Their efforts soon coincided with the City of Downey’s vision for the Downtown Downey Specific Plan, and in early 2012, they were invited by city officials to propose the implementation of a permanent community gallery space on Downey Avenue.
“Ambivalence” photo exhibition featured in The Downey Patriot, 2010
First annual Taste of Downey outdoor group exhibition by DAV, 2010
First annual Taste of Downey outdoor group exhibition by DAV, 2010
Opening reception of “Suburban Renaissance”, a group exhibition, 2011
From left to right: Gabriel Enamorado (cofounder), Valentin Flores (cofounder), Alina Wilson (volunteer curator), Kirk Cartozian (founding board chairman), Jamie Rowland (volunteer curator), Joseph Manacmul (cofounder) during the opening reception of “Suburban Renaissance”, a group exhibition, 2011
Stay Gallery
In May of 2012, Stay Gallery was founded with support from the city, following Downey city council’s unanimous vote to allocate funding for two years of rent from the Art in Public Places ordinance. DAV held the grand opening of Stay Gallery in October of the same year, welcoming 1,200 visitors over the span of two days.
The following year, local community members, businesses and organizations generously contributed over $120,000 in monetary and in-kind donations to build out the space – including the building’s facade, concrete floors, HVAC system, upstairs loft, artwork lighting and track system, plumbing and electricity.
As of 2024, Stay Gallery has continued to receive direct funding from the City of Downey for its lease (and between 2017- 2020, partial operating costs) in exchange for program services rendered for community members.
Land Acknowledgment
We acknowledge that Stay Gallery is located on the unceded territory of the Tongva/Kizh peoples. We recognize them as the original caretakers of the lands on which we live and work. We honor and respect their ancestors, elders and relatives – past, present and emerging – and are committed to deepening our understanding of and uplifting their teachings and forms of expression.
