What began as a humble laundromat in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood has transformed into a vibrant hub for emerging artists. Under the vision and leadership of curator and arts advocate Ronald “Ron” Sanchez, Laundromat Art Space has spent the last decade redefining what it means to support local talent—and FIU students have been along for the journey.
Today, the washers and dryers are long gone. In their place: an ever-evolving showcase of contemporary art, experimentation, and community collaboration. Over the years, Laundromat Art Space has become a valued partner of the Department of Art + Art History at FIU’s College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts (CARTA), offering students hands-on experience that mirrors the real-world demands of the creative industry, all while being nestled in a safe space that nurtures their creativity.
Ron advocates for the importance of this freedom, stating that “having a safe space promotes free thinking and expression, and artists need a non-judgmental supportive zone. Students are in the space of discovery, and my goal is to foster that creativity.”
Through this ongoing partnership, FIU students don’t just create art—they live the full gallery experience. From installation and presentation to networking and exhibition tear-down, students gain insight into the professional art world in an immersive, supportive environment. This serves as an homage to the type of experiential learning that really encompasses the students to learn and live real-world situations that mirror a day in the industry.
Ron, himself, provides support to the students long before the exhibition phase. He actually serves as a critic for the thesis presentations, where he leverages his industry expertise and offers feedback and guidance to the students on the same work that he eventually displays in his gallery.
Throughout this dynamic, Ron’s goal for students is crystal clear, “I hope they gain confidence. I think it’s important for students to exhibit their work outside of school.”
Originally focused on showcasing work by MFA students, Laundromat has expanded its reach dramatically. A decade later, the space regularly features exhibitions with up to 50 artists, now including the undergraduate classes as well—highlighting the growth of the space and the increasing visibility of FIU’s art program, a program that is recipient of Ron’s admiration, “FIU’s art History department is conducting outreach to different programs, non-profits, and exhibition space, and they’re nurturing relationships for the benefit of their students—I don’t see that from other universities and it’s impressive.”
Located in one of Miami’s most culturally rich and eclectic neighborhoods, Laundromat Art Space has become more than a gallery—it’s a launchpad for artistic careers and a testament to the university’s commitment to experiential learning.
This whole partnership is a compliment to the program, and the Laundromat Art Space has become a fundamental tool in the masterpiece of what being an FIU art student feels like.
As FIU’s art programs continue to grow, so too does the impact of its community partnerships. Laundromat Art Space stands as a shining example of how creative grit, mentorship and opportunity can transform both spaces and lives.
Check out the BFA ART Thesis II Art Exhibition at the Laundromat on October 18th. For more information, click here.
About the Laundromat Art Space
Laundromat Art Space is an artist-led organization dedicated to fostering the growth of local artists. Our mission is to provide innovative curatorial opportunities and artistic programming for the community.
Established in 2015 by a group of artists who had just completed residencies at other esteemed organizations, our vision was to create a unique space of our own. Today, LAS thrives in a beautifully transformed former laundromat in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Haiti in Miami, FL.
The venue is captivating, with a vast expanse of 4,500 square feet. Within its walls, you’ll find not only 11 studios but also a gallery. Laundromat is renowned for its contemporary art exhibitions, which feature a diverse range of local, national, and international works. What sets Laundromat apart is its commitment to fostering collaboration among multidisciplinary artists, providing resident artists with a unique and inspiring environment.
