Midway Contemporary Art

Minneapolis, MN

Founded by artists in 2001, Midway Contemporary Art is a nonprofit visual arts organization in Minneapolis known for commissioning new work by emerging and under-recognized artists—often presenting US or regional debuts—as well as for maintaining a public research library and hosting talks, screenings, and community programming. Its Educational Wing Expansion marks the second phase of a long-term capital project transforming a former industrial site into a model of sustainable, community-centered cultural infrastructure. The expansion will add a 6,000-square-foot library and education wing adjacent to Midway’s recently renovated gallery, increasing capacity for public programs, academic engagement, and collection access. Located in the Northside Green Zone—a district historically shaped by industrial activity and disinvestment—the project represents a pragmatic and visionary investment in cultural and environmental resilience. It builds on Midway’s ongoing sustainability efforts, including the installation of triple-pane windows, radiant floor heating, and high-performance insulation.

The Educational Wing will extend this work through rooftop solar panels and carbon-sequestering building materials such as HempWool and Glavel. The expansion will support a rapidly growing library collection, student programs, and expanded public programming. Once complete, Midway’s permanent home will serve as a case study in climate-responsive design for arts organizations repurposing the built environment.

Milestones:

• Construct new 6,000-square-foot Educational Wing

• Install rooftop solar array and solar carport

• Replace asphalt lot with permeable gravel and retain all stormwater onsite

• Employ carbon-sequestering materials: HempWool, Glavel, and triple-pane windows

• Expand collection storage to accommodate growth to 40,000 volumes

• Support exhibitions, talks, and student visits with enhanced cultural infrastructure