This Manifesto is the start of the Guild of Micro Galleries (GoMG).
We are a gathering of those who run Micro Galleries or are run by them.
Our aim is to exhibit art as part of a narrative that includes unusual audiences and locations.
A Micro Gallery is a space that isn’t a typical gallery but somewhat functions like one.
There is no set limit to the scale of a Micro Gallery, nor is there a limit to the number one can own, manage or curate, nor on the size of the work displayed (if it fits it sits).
Micro refers to the size of the gallery, not the size of the work.
Micro Galleries do not require a fixed location to be viewed but those that do are considered stationary; those that don’t are nomadic (or possibly virtual).
A Micro Gallery can be either physical, digital or both and can be constructed from anything.
Membership to the GoMG is by invitation; there is no charge for membership.
Guild membership is a recognition of excellence in Micro Gallery management.
We promote and encourage artists we exhibit, and support and nurture other Guild Members.
There is no limit to how many shows can be held, although at least one a year would be nice, but it isn’t a banishing offence if not done.
Honorary Membership might be conferred for a Micro Gallery that has curated only only a handful of exemplary projects but does not operate as a Micro Gallery long-term, or a programme over a longer fixed and finite period.
Occasionally, we may hold a Guild-wide exhibition (together in a 3D space, virtually online, or in some hybrid form) where the entire membership would be invited to take part. Participation would be encouraged, but would be strictly voluntary.
The operation of a Micro Gallery can be a free space in which artists aren’t required to pay for its services* but shoulder the delivery of their art. *(In some cases, artists may be asked for a voluntary contribution to help towards a Micro Gallery’s running costs.)
Micro Galleries also have the opportunity to sell the work of exhibiting artists to support the continuous running of the gallery, or for profit.
The owner/ curator has the right to show whatever they please whether it’s a set theme, standpoint, artist career group or single artist.
Most of our members are artists themselves and occasionally might wish to display their own works in a group or solo shows This is perfectly acceptable practice as far as we are concerned.
The One Main Rule
We use our galleries for good not evil, by showing work that does not actively spread hate or discrimination, unless the artist is critically highlighting an unheard voice and clearly states so in the work.
Banishment
A Micro Gallery that breaks the one main rule is at risk of banishment from the Guild of Micro Galleries.
Signed by GMG Founding Members & Guild Masters:
- Lisa Cole (GoMG Co-Founder) — Curator, Tiny Cat Gallery (Bristol, UK) @tiny.cat.gallery @lisa_cole_designer
- Jack Woodward (GoMG Co-Founder) — Curator, CMG – Cardboard Monkey Galleries (Wigan, W. Lancs, UK) @acardboardmonkey
- Sally Eldars (GoMG Co-Founder) — Curator, TOD – The Open Dresser Gallery (Kent, UK) @the.open.dresser.gallery @sallyeldars
- Eldi Dundee (GoMG Guild Master) — Curator, Small House Gallery (South London, UK) @small_house_gallery @eldidundee_art