Unit 17 opened with a group exhibition by Derya Akay, Tiziana La Melia and Tristan Unrau in January 2017. With a particular focus on developing artist-driven solo exhibitions and curated group shows by Canadian as well as international artists, the gallery began in a 500 sq ft office space in East Vancouver, operating by appointment. In August 2017, the gallery expanded to a 3,000 sq ft 1930s storefront on the west side of the city. The space included a 1500 sq ft garden, studios, kitchens, an outdoor shower and the gallery which was passed on to 45-year old artist-run-centre UNIT/PITT Projects in September 2023. Unit 17 re-opened at 207 West Hastings Street in January 2024.
The gallery presents artist-driven solo exhibitions in an effort to fulfill the vision of specific artistic projects, renegotiating certain influences of the market and commercial pressures within gallery systems. In 2020, the gallery hosted the exhibition "The Neighbour’s Plate" with Derya Akay, Amna Elnour & Dana Qaddah which opened up the program to begin presenting group exhibitions that form through invitation. Artists represented by the gallery invite additional artists they wish to show alongside, from within or outside of their community, and allow them to choose their level of participation through larger collaboration, public programs or more discreet interventions.
