About Us

RAIR’s mission is to challenge the perception of waste culture by providing a unique platform at the intersection of art and industry, and community. Situated inside a construction and demolition waste recycling company in northeast Philadelphia, RAIR creates and provides artist residencies, fellowships, new project commissions, interdisciplinary partnerships, and public programs.

Since its inception in 2010, RAIR’s flagship Residency Program has established itself as a unique opportunity for emerging, mid-career, and established artists. By facilitating artists’ direct engagement with the waste stream, RAIR encourages residents to consider their studio practice through the lens of sustainability and to thoughtfully reassess their processes of material sourcing and waste disposal.

Collaborating with community groups, art institutions and waste industry partners, RAIR has also extended its reach far beyond its resident artists through Projects including recycling facility tours, class presentations, public events and exhibitions that illuminate the connections between art, industry and sustainability. RAIR offers assistance with the material sourcing, planning, design, and fabrication involved in a range of cross-disciplinary projects, and works with collaborators to maximize the creative potential of waste materials.

RAIR prides itself in addressing the individual needs and circumstances of all Individuals interested in the program on a case by case basis. For any questions about accessibility please directly contact Creative Director, Billy Dufala who will personally address all needs and accommodations.  We look forward to working with you every step of the way to assure a safe and productive time at RAIR.