Founded in 1976, Touchstone Gallery is located in a custom-built street-level space at 901 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC. Since the beginning, Touchstone’s mission has remained unaltered: to enrich the lives of the community through diverse contemporary art exhibitions; to promote a rich variety of art talent in the DC region; to showcase national and international artists whenever possible; and to foster continuing artistic and career growth of its 50 member artists through encouragement and support. Touchstone Gallery was named "Best of DC" by Washington City Paper readers over several consecutive years and it received two letters of recognition for enriching its community through arts from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. As a member owned and managed gallery, Touchstone artists enjoy the right to guide gallery policies and control their solo exhibitions. The support and camaraderie of the membership is an important benefit. From the start, Touchstone has been involved with the DC community and with philanthropic outreach in and beyond DC region. The gallery is part of local, national and international art scene, balancing its members’ shows with ongoing art outreach and support of its non-profit neighbors. In 2012 Touchstone formed the nonprofit Touchstone Foundation for the Arts to continue a long standing commitment to community involvement and art development.