About Us

Exoterica PDX is a dedicated cultural programming organization committed to fostering a vibrant and compliant ecosystem for art, commerce, and community connection in Portland. Our mission is to transform unique industrial spaces into high-quality cultural hubs that host diverse experiences, enriching the local cultural landscape.

Our Space: A Foundation for Creation

The physical location programmed by Exoterica PDX is designed to be a catalyst for creation and collaboration. We view our space as more than just a venue—it is a foundation for growth, innovation, and community engagement.

Versatile Design: Our large, adaptable industrial footprint is engineered to seamlessly transition between various functions: from hosting expansive art installations and educational workshops to facilitating bustling local makers' markets and high-production cultural events.

Commitment to Compliance: We prioritize the safety and security of our patrons, vendors, and partners. All Exoterica PDX programming is operated under a strict commitment to all city regulations, permitting requirements, and safety guidelines. We maintain comprehensive facility standards to ensure a controlled and trustworthy environment for every experience.

Supporting Local Economy: By providing an accessible and professional platform, Exoterica PDX actively supports local artists, craftspeople, and small businesses, creating vital opportunities for economic growth and community upliftment.

Our Programming Pillars

Exoterica PDX focuses on three core areas:

Art & Installation: Showcasing compelling contemporary visual and sound art, and providing the scale necessary for large-format, immersive exhibitions that redefine the boundaries of conventional galleries.
Education & Workshops: Hosting classes and specialized workshops designed to share expertise, promote deep learning, and facilitate creative discourse within the community.
Community Commerce: Curating regular, vibrant marketplaces that connect local makers and ethical vendors directly with the public, promoting sustainable, hyper-local commerce.

We invite you to explore the creative possibilities within Exoterica PDX.

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Our Story

The founding vision for Exoterica PDX is the culmination of decades of event organizing expertise, established by Josh Baker & Jasmine Akina. Their experience began in the early 2000s, organizing electronic music events in Florida and Hawaii, before they relocated to Portland in 2012 to establish new roots. After focusing on family, and building up their careers in Food & Beverage and Social Media Marketing, this combined expertise is channeled into Exoterica PDX. This venture is fulfilling the long-held dream of creating a professionally managed space dedicated to fostering innovative art, music, education, and commerce, thus making a positive and sustained contribution to the Portland community.