Visual Studies Workshop (VSW) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that nurtures experimental and expansive approaches to photography and media arts, and builds community among artists and the public through exhibitions, publications and residencies. VSW was founded in 1969 in Rochester, New York by photographer, educator and curator Nathan Lyons (1930–2016). Rooted in Lyons' progressive vision of the "workshop" idea, VSW became one of the earliest independent, not-for-profit, artist-run spaces in the country. Today, VSW provides artist residencies, produces 2-3 exhibitions, and screens dozens of films each year. It is located in the historic Susan B. Anthony neighborhood in downtown Rochester.