Park Slope Artists On The Hunt For Unconventional Exhibit Space

PARK SLOPE, BROOKLYN — As traditional gallery space becomes less frequent in the neighborhood, local artists are discovering the benefits of displaying their work in some more unconventional places.

Good Neighbors of Park Slope, a local group of more than 600 residents 50 and older, has recently been looking for places where its 70-plus artists might be able to display their work. The group has had some luck with galleries, but said less traditional spaces like restaurants, offices, libraries or even government-related spaces are now also on the radar for possible exhibition spots.

The non-traditional spaces, the group contends, not only make sure the community artists' work is seen, but also that the local businesses can enhance their spaces or even see better business.

"We know our area has a vibrant artist population, eager to share work to a growing community, currently underserved," one of the group's artists Jeanette Koumjian said. "The ideal would be ongoing relationships with willing host (and) spaces where rotating shows over extended periods become “signature” events."

The search is partly in response to a lack of gallery spaces in Park Slope that offer the chance for art exhibitions, according to the group's artist activity coordinator, Joyce Jed.

Only a few galleries, such as Ground Floor Gallery, are still around. Others, like 440 Gallery, a coop, often only allow displays for member artists.

The galleries, though, aren't the only spaces that benefit from art exhibitions, she added. Other alternative spaces might actually be spots where art is most needed.

"Whether a restaurant or library where relaxed patrons can sit back and enjoy, or a healthcare setting where ambience is vital to public comfort — Depending on how a show is curated, it can express a sensitivity and relevance to the space it occupies and those who visit it.," Joyce said.

The idea with the alternative spaces is that the artists themselves would help curate the exhibitions, meaning they could tailor the theme to the specific venue or offer a rotating offering of work to display.

The partnerships can also help artists and businesses interact with others in their community. The exhibitions will help promote the artists and offer opportunities for patrons to buy what they see, the group said.

Businesses interested in setting up art exhibitions can find more information about the group here.