In this episode of What's My Thesis?, host Javier Proenza is joined by Liz Hirsch, co-director of 839 Gallery—an artist-run house gallery in Los Angeles that reimagines what a commercial art space can look and feel like. Located in a 1924 Craftsman home, 839 is part of a growing network of intimate, artist-centered spaces shaping the future of exhibition-making in L.A. With a background in arts education, community organizing, and curatorial work at institutions like Artists Space and Essex Flowers, Hirsch discusses the vision behind 839: a space that supports emerging artists through solo shows, long-term relationships, and thoughtful engagement. Many of the gallery’s featured artists—including Olivia Gibson, Andressen Aqua, and Michelle Daly—are presenting their first solo exhibitions under Hirsch’s direction. The episode touches on the realities and freedoms of running a house gallery, the gallery’s upcoming presentation at NADA New York, and their limited-edition print series designed to make collecting more accessible. This conversation offers essential insights into how artists and curators are building new models of sustainability, intimacy, and care within a decentralized art world. Explore more: 📍 839 Gallery, Los Angeles 🌐 www.839gallery.com 📸 Instagram: @839gallery