small packages/small spaces

I took in a sharp, shallow breath when I first entered the gallery space at The Artists Foundation. I knew my project/exhibit room would be small...but this was tiny!

I'd made a mock up of the two 6' wide gallery walls in my studio and sized the work accordingly. But I didn't, or couldn't, take into account the feeling of the low ceilings. The gallery is the size of a bathroom. A 7' ceilinged bathroom. Without water. Or tiles. Ok, its not really like a bathroom.

The "good things come in small packages" phrase rattled around my head as I unpacked my things, but I wasn't buying it. My co-exhibitor seemed to be just as shocked. His response was to edit his 50 pieces down to 30.

I stubbornly charged ahead. Trusting that what I made on the studio walls would certainly work in the gallery - despite how tall it's ceiling was. Instinctively, instead of editing, I kept adding MORE. The same way I add layer upon layer in a painting until it is "done".

After about eight hours of just sort of futzing around and getting lost in the space (yes, that is ironic) I realized it was all OK. I'd created a little private corner tucked away from everything. An almost meditative space. It cries out for a giant pollen sculpture to sink into. (I'll have to start looking for another sweat shop; my assistant is on strike.)

So, maybe I do believe good things come in small packages...or small spaces...or from small brains.

It may all be true but I warn anyone who is claustrophobic and thinking about coming to the opening this Saturday to think again. A better time to come might be Saturday, February 7 from 12-5 pm when I'll be gallery sitting (perhaps meditating if it's slow).

WHAT:
1. Opening reception:
Saturday, Jan. 24, 3-5pm

2. me waiting to see you:
Saturday, Feb. 7, 12-5pm

WHERE:
Artists Foundation @ The Distillery
516 East Second St. 1st Floor
Boston MA 02127

The show is open every Saturday 12-5 from Jan 24 through Feb 14; by appointment (call 617-464-3561) or if you know the right people...I'm giving private viewings on Fridays and some evenings (kate(at)kategilbertmiller(dot)com).