Output details

This is the Gallery and the Gallery is Many Things (TITGATGIMT), Eastside Projects (EP)

This is the Gallery and the Gallery is Many Things (TGGMT) was the inaugural exhibition of Eastside Projects (2008). Established as an ‘evolving exhibition,’ it initially showcased 38 new artworks by 28 well-known and up-and-coming artists, including James Langdon, Barbara Holub, Liam Gillick, Laureana Toledo and Rain Li (26 Sep–22 Nov 2008). Set in the heart of Birmingham’s City Centre Eastside regeneration zone, this exhibition provided an ambitious framework for future arts regeneration projects. The underlying ethos for TGGMT and the gallery, relied on (1) Lissitzky’s Abstract Cabinet (1926–1930) radical emphasis on the artist-curator; and (2) the notion of the exhibition as ‘evolving,’ [cf Peter Nadin Gallery (1978-79) and the Museum van Hedendaagse Kunst (1994)]. TGGMT reinstituted the ‘evolutionary exhibition led by the artist-curator,’ recreating the symbiotic commitment of art/ curation/regeneration. From 2008, the TGGMT exhibition evolved to include Sculpture Show and Abstract Cabinet Show (2009); Curtain Show and Book Show (2010); Narrative Show and The Painting Show (2012), Puppet Show and Trade Show (2013). Key research questions included: 1) the importance of renovation/building works as an evolving artwork; 2) the role of physical space for the displaying of art and 3) understanding the ‘cumulative processes of art production’ as symbiotic and evolving research/links to the University and other professional bodies. Eastside Projects, initiated in partnership with BIAD/BCU, was awarded the prestigious status of National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) (2009). TGGMT was honoured as one of the world’s most significant group exhibitions (2008). It has been written about in over 30 articles since 2008, including Frieze (Jan 2009, 120) and the seminal book, The Culture of Curating and the Curating of Culture(s) (MIT: 2012). Publications by Wade linked to this exhibition include: Has Man A Function in Universe? (2008); Curtain Show, with Condorelli C (2010); Narrative Show (2011).