The exchange between artist and audience is basic to civic life; it is crucial to the economic, spiritual, and intellectual well-being of a community, providing insight into the human experience. The performing arts is about the active connection of performers and audience coming together in a shared space.

The live performance of music, film, dance, theatre, poetry, and other arts is a universal form of human communication and is an inseparable component of free expression. It is the obligation of culture, albeit--the Art Exchange's responsibility, to help foster this creative relationship and make a richer, vibrant, and more open society.

Downtown is in need of a new performing arts center that will provide an innovative alternative to the city's existing presenting organizations. Set-up as a hybrid combination of a non-profit organization and commercial music venue, The Art Exchange will not only play a vital role in the renewal of Lower Manhattan; but also provide important fresh culture to New York City and connect with the global cultural scene. It will serve as a community center for downtown artists and consumers looking for a comfortable environment to eat, drink, and participate in the arts, both night and day. The Art Exchange will change the cultural landscape of New York for the better, while at the same time, become a catalyst for the renewal of Downtown. Stay tuned.