The Mall R.A.T.S. (Radical Artists Taking-up Space) is a collective of artists, Liz Williams, Jeannie Regan, Anna Helgeson, Lenny Kryiakoulis, Erik Mace, Daniel Simone, and Susan Martin, who transform unused spaces in Asheville, NC, into vibrant hubs of creativity. Through exhibitions, craft pop-ups, immersive installations, and educational opportunities, we ignite engagement by activating space for the arts.

A 2023 study from ArtsAVL, which polled over 300 arts businesses, revealed that area artists need affordable space to display art and create art experiences. With extensive damage to various regional art districts from Hurricane Helene, including the River Arts District in Asheville, Marshall High Studios in Marshall, and Treats studio in Spruce Pine, among countless others, the need for space is now even greater.

Mall R.A.T.S. is working with the Asheville Mall to activate vacant spaces while supporting regional artists and the local creative community. All of our exhibitions are made with accessibility in mind: no cost or barrier to entry, we welcome all. The collective is self-funded and actively seeking sponsorship partners and grant funds.

In our first three exhibitions, we have shown 156 artworks!

Learn more here at this link Mall RATS!