Library Art Galleries Policies

Expectations

The University Library regularly exhibits art and crafts ranging from watercolors, oils, etchings, graphic arts, and acrylics to photographs, jewelry, miniatures, baskets, and the book arts. While local and regional artists of all ages, including children in K – 12, may exhibit in the library’s galleries, artists from outside the region and traveling exhibits may also be considered.  All exhibitions and displays are approved by the Executive Director of USA Libraries, Director of the Biomedical Library, and/or the Outreach and Communications Librarian. Artists interested in exhibiting are asked to schedule an appointment with Paula Webb, Outreach & Communications Librarian.

Artists are expected to provide the following previous to during their exhibit:

1. A signed USA Libraries Art Gallery Policy
2. A minimum of three high quality digital images of their artistic works for promotion purposes. These images will be used on Social Media, printed material, signage on the USA Libraries Gallery Website.
3. After dates are finalized for their art to be on display (usually a range of two months), the artist will schedule a time to hang their work and the date they will remove their work. The artist is responsible for installing and de-installing their art as scheduled unless other arrangements for set-up are approved by the Outreach & Communications Librarian.
4. Artists must provide an artist statement which includes a description of the show for promotion purposes, as well as cards identifying each of the works in the show and price (if applicable).
5. Artists will provide three dates and times they could come and share with USA students about their art. Free drinks will be provided for these art talks and artists are free to bring snacks for students who attend.

Forms

USA Library Art Galleries Policy

JagWorks@USA Artwork License Agreement

JagWorks@USA Release Form - Photographs and/or Video

Matting, Framing, etc.

Works which will be hung in the galleries must normally be framed and wired so that they are ready for hanging on the library gallery rails. Works which will be displayed in the cases in Mary Elizabeth and Charles Bernard Rodning Gallery of Art on the third floor often do not need to be framed but may need to be matted or mounted on foam boards. Artists should consult with the Outreach & Communications Librarian with respect to displaying free-standing works.

Security

While the University Library cannot provide a security guard, a state-of-the-art video surveillance system is used to monitor the exhibit areas, as well as library entrances and exits. This has been a very effective tool in safeguarding art works; however, it must be understood that the library is not responsible for any theft or damage.

Sales of Art

The library does not sell art; therefore, the artist may place cost and contact information on each piece or on a list of works, etc. If a work is sold by the artist, it normally needs to remain in the show until it is over unless the artist can replace it with another work(s). The library does not charge the artist or take any commission for works that artist sells.

Receptions/Speaking

There is no requirement that the artist or the library host a reception. Receptions may be scheduled in Gallery 181 or the Mary Elizabeth and Charles Bernard Rodning Gallery. Receptions are approved for the Rodning Gallery on a case-by-case basis. Providing refreshments is the responsibility of the artist; this includes set-up and clean-up. Per university policy, the artist must use Aramark to provide refreshments for their receptions if purchased. Free drinks will be provided for these events and artists are free to bring donated snacks for students who attend. 

Disclaimer

The USA Libraries Galleries strives to encourage an exchange of information that facilitates object-based learning, teaching, and scholarly activities.  The library is essential to developing faculty, staff, and students who are prepared to engage the challenges of the twenty-first century as socially-responsible and information-literate citizens.  We assert that the open expression of ideas and a free flow of information are critical to teaching and learning.

The opinions expressed are those of the participants and contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the USA Libraries Galleries or the University of South Alabama employees.