Dissonant Works

A nonprofit organization

0% complete

$8,000 Goal

About Us

Dissonant Works is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization based in St. Louis, MO. We are dedicated to cultivating a vibrant, experiential space where artists and musicians stretch the boundaries of creativity and share their work in an intimate setting. Anchored in the belief that art and sound have the power to transform and unite, we provide access to diverse resources and programming designed to inspire creative exploration and experimentation, supporting the growth of both individual and collective practice.

Our inclusive environment and evolving platforms encourage curiosity, authentic collaboration, innovation, and self-expression in all its forms. Our art and event space, in the former historic McKinley Theater, is part of the evolving artistic landscape of South City, St. Louis, where a new wave of experimental art and sound is emerging. As a platform for underrepresented visionary artists and musicians, we create a safe space for immersive, layered experiences through exhibitions, performances, and community engagement.

As a growing team of artists, musicians, filmmakers, and nonprofit organizers, we rely on grants, volunteers, and in-kind contributions to sustain our programs.

Listening Room

Experimental Sound and Performance

We offer an intimate performance space dedicated to intentional listening and exploratory sound. Focused on improvisation, experimental composition, and curated sonic experiences, our space provides a setting for both short and long-form performances. With a seating capacity of 35, we create an intimate atmosphere that encourages deep engagement with the music and art. 


Art Space

Artist Residencies and Exhibitions

Dissonant Works hosts a rotating artist-in-residence program, offering space for immersive visual and multimedia art. Quarterly exhibitions showcase experimental works, accompanied by open gallery hours and artist talks that invite dialogue between artists and the community. Through this program, we support innovative practices that challenge perception and expand artistic discourse.


Community Resource

Prismatic Dissonance: Music Archive and Lending Library

Named in honor of our late friend and musician, Michael Henning, Prismatic Dissonance is a comprehensive archival and music lending library dedicated to documenting and preserving experimental art and sound. This collection serves as a resource for artists, researchers, and the community, offering access to recordings, texts, and other materials that trace the evolution of avant-garde creative practices. In addition to books and archival materials, the library provides instruments and tools for community use, supporting hands-on exploration and creative experimentation.


Event Space

Workshops and Private Events

Dissonant Works offers workshops that encourage hands-on exploration of experimental art and sound. Led by artists, musicians, visionaries, and makers of all kinds, these sessions engage the community in creative practice and conversation. Our space is also available for private events aligned with our mission, providing an intimate setting for gatherings, performances, and collaborative projects.


Giving Activity

Mission

Dissonant Works is dedicated to cultivating a vibrant, experiential space where artists and musicians stretch the boundaries of creativity and share their work in an intimate setting. Anchored in the belief that art and sound have the power to transform and unite, we provide access to diverse resources and programming designed to inspire creative exploration and experimentation, supporting the growth of both individual and collective practice.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Dissonant Works

Tax id (EIN)

33-2902882

Mission/Purpose

International, Health & Wellness, Education, Community Improvement/Economic Development, Arts & Culture - Theaters, Arts & Culture - Music, Arts & Culture - Museums, Arts & Culture

Operating Budget

Mini: $0-$50,000

Audiences Served

Teens, General Public, BILPOC, Children, Youth, Families, Men, Women, Veterans, Older Adults, Military, LGBTQIA+, Justice-Involved Individuals, Immigrants, Refugees, Foreign-Born Populations, People with Disabilities, First Responders

BILPOC Leadership

BILPOC Leadership

Address

6034 FYLER AVE
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63139

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