01/12/2026
Story Time!💫 We had the pleasure today of meeting Chris Murray - writer, curator, and founder of the iconic Govinda Gallery, a Georgetown staple since 1975. Chris was the former tenant of what is now Pure Sweat + Float Studio & Down Dog Yoga for 35 years.
I (Liz) have heard stories of this legend! Our longtime neighbors often stop by to share memories of the ’70s and ’80s and the many “who’s who” they met right here in our space. It felt serendipitous that of all days for Chris and his partner Carlotta to stroll in for a sauna + float, I happened to be working.
Chris has known and featured the likes of Andy Warhol, Annie Leibovitz, Jimi Hendrix, and more — artists and a time I grew up influenced by. The Govinda Gallery is celebrated worldwide for representing and exhibiting iconic photography of musical artists. If these walls could talk!
Our home on Prospect Street also sits just 200 feet from what once was The Cellar Door - a legendary music venue that hosted Joni Mitchell, John Denver, James Taylor, Patti Smith, Robert Hunter of the Grateful Dead, and countless others.
I always knew this building spoke to me before moving in. As a lifelong fan of the music and art scene of the ’70s and ’80s, this moment feels like a full-circle confirmation. I’m honored to be upholding a small part of iconic DC history.
If there are any local historians out there who want to help continue the story - or clear up any mis-tellings - please say hello! 🤍
