
At first glance, it would seem like an average house.
But what exists behind the facade is anything but ordinary.
This unassuming location at 24 E. Lincoln St. is where the Studios on High gallery decided to hold “Pop-up Art,” a limited-time exhibition that showcases exclusive works until Sept. 16, bringing a different experience to Columbus.
The contrast between the unusual location and how it has been used makes for an intriguing exhibition.
“Most people are surprised because it looks like a house from the outside,” Jennifer Jolley-Brown, an artist exhibiting her work in this space, said.
Studios on High has been voted best gallery of 2018 by Columbus Monthly. Its 22 members and artists created the new exhibition outside of their regular exhibition space.
The two-story property is tucked away, about 60 yards from High Street. There are a few balloons and a sign that reads “Pop Up Art Gallery” hanging out front — the only markers distinguishing it from the other houses on the street.
“The one thing that makes it a challenge is that people don’t know we’re there,” Jolley-Brown said. “The balloons helped, I found that out.”
In addition to this, road construction is under way in front of the studio, making it a bit difficult for pedestrians to access both the gallery and the pop-up exhibition. However, people do not come only because of its proximity to the studio. They also come naturally.
The house has almost no furniture, but every wall is full of art installations.
“I think [that people] are surprised that we have that much art in a space that looks that small from the outside,” Jolley-Brown said.
The pop-up can be considered an extension of the studio, but the atmosphere feels distinct and special.
“The gallery is not necessarily a more formal exhibition, the works are just different,” Carole Bucklew, another artist from the collective, said.
Jolley-Brown said an advantage of the space is that it helps buyers envision what pieces would work best in their own household.
“When people are looking for works for their homes, they can see it in the setting of a home,” Jolley-Brown said.
The pop-up was created by five artists from the collective and features great diversity in the works displayed. According to Bucklew, a member of the group, the artists decided whose works would be exhibited and which ones.
Artists include Deb Davis-Livaich, who specializes in ceramic, bronze and glass sculptures, and there are wildlife paintings by Tracy Greenwalt and landscape paintings and ceramics by Teda Theis.
The collective jumped on the landlord’s suggestion to rent the space before filling the property with their art.
“I would definitely do [this kind of exhibition] again,” Jolley-Brown said.
“Pop-up Art” is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, from 1 to 5 p.m. and entry is free.
Article published online in The Lantern.
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