Union College is now home to a unique and intriguing new gallery. The Tiny AF Gallery, a brainchild of two Union College professors, has found its place on the second floor of the college’s Feigenbaum Center for Visual Arts.
As the name suggests, the gallery is indeed tiny. Measuring just 18 inches in height and 12 inches in width, it is nestled between the offices of Allison Conley and Frank Rapant. The professors saw an opportunity to utilize the unused wall space between their offices and took it.
“We have a large walk-in gallery downstairs. This is its miniature counterpart,” Conley explained, referring to the Crowell and West Galleries. “We are showcasing both ends of the size spectrum.”
The gallery, equipped with three shelves, also features a mini security camera, a magnifying glass, and a tiny guest book.
The inaugural exhibition was held last year, displaying miniature photos from a contact sheet by an anonymous artist who responded to a call for submissions.
The current exhibition, titled “Of Mice and Man: A Tiny Tribute,” takes a sculptural turn, showcasing six tiny, vibrant paper works. These pieces, crafted by arts department coordinator Victoria Rotondi, are a tribute to the artworks of Chris Duncan, a three-dimensional art teacher at Union.
The gallery also serves as a source of amusement for the arts department. The first exhibition was inspired by a figurine named Myrtle the Main Office Mouse, found on a staff member’s desk. The current exhibition is said to be the work of a fictional faculty member from the imaginary Murine School of Fine Arts, and is on loan from Myrtle.
“It’s essentially an ever-evolving ball of fun,” said Conley, who also teaches printmaking and drawing at Union.
The gallery brings a touch of whimsy to an environment that can often be perceived as serious or even intimidating.
“Artists enjoy challenging the notion of the sanctity of the art gallery. The act of framing something can make it seem precious, which is both fascinating and absurd,” Conley added.
On a more serious note, the gallery aims to encourage viewers to engage with the artworks from a fresh perspective.
“I’m a big fan of small works because they compel you to get up close and personal with the art. To truly appreciate the details, you can’t just stand across the room,” said Rapant, a photography and exhibition technician at Union.
“While it may seem a bit silly and tongue-in-cheek, there’s something to be said for small works in a world where everything is often supersized.”
The upcoming exhibition will showcase the work of Tina Lincer from the department of communications and marketing. Conley is hopeful that students will also participate in future exhibitions.
“Students enjoy pursuing projects out of their own interest, rather than just completing an assignment,” Conley said.
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This is such a creative and innovative idea! I love seeing professors think outside the box like this. #agree
Great idea, love the creativity! #agree
Great idea, love the creativity! #agree
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