Chashama supports artists by partnering with property owners to transform unused real estate into creative hubs. Chashama is a non-profit that transforms unused real estate for creatives. chashama supports thriving communities by transforming temporarily vacant properties into spaces where art can flourish.  It was founded by Anita Durst with the central purpose of keeping artists in New York by giving them the space to create.  Since 1995, chashama has transformed more than 40 vacant properties, giving 7,500 artists access to subsidized space which supported approximately 10,000 public presentations for over 500,000 viewers.  It operates in 11 locations and supports 100 to 120 visual, performance, and film artists daily.  chashama also provides stipends as well as technical and administrative support to artists for the creation of original work.