Mary Iorio

Attendance of visual arts has decreased since the mid 20th century, causing art organizations to worry about their future significance in society. Many museums offer discounted and free admission, events targeting a younger audience, and join social media all in the hopes to increase visitor diversity. Unfortunately these campaigns do not yield the desired results and the average museumgoers remain primarily white, college educated, middle-aged to retired adults. Some studies show time and ability to travel are the impediments for museum visitation however lack of diversity and not feeling welcome are issues all organizations should and can address. Diversity is inadequate both in collections and in the audience. In order to begin to combat this disparity, many museums have begun community initiatives to increase their presence and create a positive association. While this represents a positive step, many organizations still focus on the community to come to the institution rather than leaving the museum to engage.

This thesis suggests a new format of art community engagement. The program connects larger organizations to smaller gallery spaces within a underserved community to create and support a space for early, aspiring, and hobbyist artists to show their work. A committee made up of a museum curator/exhibition designer, resident, and local government employee meet and review submitted exhibition proposals. They provide support and check in with progress, however do not make design decisions.

The art world has historically been controlled by the wealthy and most privileged. The institutions that have benefited the most have received criticism in recent years over the lack of diversity amongst their audience and artists represented on their walls. Community galleries can make up for the deficiencies of major institutions and give voice to those who will not be noticed in traditional art spaces (i.e. museums, galleries, auctions). This book details the process of creating a pop-up gallery that will serve the community through displaying, publicizing, and selling artwork. It begins with organizing a committee to oversee the space, select artists, and offer support and guidance. Next, the ideal minimal spatial qualifications for the gallery are addressed along with promotional techniques. Finally, detailed instructions are provided to set up the exhibition system with illustrated potential uses and configurations.

The purpose of this system is to be obtained by those interested in initiating a creative environment in an existing space. While the display, table, and chair iterations are detailed, they are merely options and not a fixed set.