An art complex in Albuquerque’s Barelas neighborhood faced significant damages and is currently closed after a fire erupted earlier this month. The nonprofit Fourteenfifteen Gallery, along with its Alpaca event space and the Minnow music venue, were affected when flames engulfed sections of the building in the early hours of November 2. According to a spokesperson for Fourteenfifteen, the fire originated in an alleyway adjacent to the complex.
Although the structure itself remains intact, the interior suffered extensive damage from smoke and water. Artists’ supplies, including electronics, tools, plinths, and materials belonging to the documentary production company Basement Films, were destroyed. Additionally, printed materials, exhibition ephemera, and sentimental objects are among the irreplaceable items lost in the fire.
The Albuquerque Fire Department managed to contain the fire within 50 minutes, with no reported injuries. However, the cause of the fire remains unknown as it was not investigated. Fourteenfifteen initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for repairs, and so far, $10,000 has been collected. The art complex is situated in a historic district along Route 66, near the National Hispanic Cultural Center.
Fourteenfifteen and the Minnow are managed by members of LoA, a collective of curators and artists. The organization, established in 2018, aims to support underrepresented and experimental artists. The building housing Fourteenfifteen has been home to various artist-run spaces for over two decades.
The gallery was scheduled to unveil an exhibit titled “Ladmo: An Exhibit That Bears A Striking Resemblance to A Retrospective” featuring works by artist Bryan Konefsky. Unfortunately, the opening had to be postponed due to the fire. Fourteenfifteen has previously hosted puppet shows, mutual aid-generating events, and launch parties for zines like BorderPlex, showcasing queer and trans Borderland artists.
In a statement to the community, Fourteenfifteen expressed gratitude for the financial support received through the GoFundMe campaign and upcoming benefit events. The organization is currently assessing the extent of the damages and is reliant on community support to recover from the losses. They emphasized the importance of such spaces in fostering a vibrant and flourishing artistic community.
As repairs continue, there is no set timeline for the reopening of Fourteenfifteen Gallery. The organization is committed to rebuilding and restoring the beloved art complex for the benefit of the local arts community.
