We have had musical performances in our gallery spaces. These have included classical a single flute player, a didgeridoo concert with many performers (which worked particularly well with our space than tends to echo), and a series of bands including electric guitar and drum sets. This last one posed a bit of a problem with the bands having to set up a stage in the gallery and visitors were less aware of the works on the wall. I had to go around reminding visitors to not lean back against the walls with art hung on them.
The most successful event we had in the gallery was an improvisational music and dance group. The performers responded to the works on the walls and to the space and to the visitors in a really nice way. These events were great for attracting a new audience to our galleries.
It helps that we are part of a university, where there are faculty interested in joint projects. I have found that performers are very eager to try new spaces and love being surrounded by interesting objects while they work.
We are tying yoga in the gallery next week, on a day that our space is usually closed to visitors. Our biggest concern is people bringing in liquids, so we have put out a statement to prevent this.
I highly recommend trying new things in your space, but be upfront with performers and visitors. Share your expected behaviors and explain any concerns you have about protecting your space before your commit.
Best regards,
Leslie
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Leslie Walfish
Gallery & Collections Manager
Wriston Art Center Galleries Lawrence University
Appleton WI
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Original Message:
Sent: 10-16-2014 11:56 AM
From: Laura Caruso
Subject: Out of the Box and at the Museum
The Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, CO, has yoga classes onsite, but they charge a modest fee. The attraction is the setting.
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Laura Caruso
Sr. Editor & Manager of Museum Publications
Denver Art Museum
Denver CO
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Original Message:
Sent: 10-15-2014 03:59 PM
From: Ashley Scotto
Subject: Out of the Box and at the Museum
Hi Everyone!
I am interested to see if your institution does anything considered "out of the box" for using your space or if you attended something different in a museum setting. I come from a relatively small historic site and we are looking to connect further with our community in creative ways. Some ideas that have been put out there are free yoga classes on our site and renting out the space to different groups for their own programs. We recently began a paranormal programming series that was received extremely well.
What does your institution do? How do you get the word out there?
What are your general thoughts on different uses of museum spaces?
Any information would be greatly appreciated!
Sincerely,
Ashley
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Ashley Scotto
Education Assistant
Historic Speedwell
Morristown, NJ
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