Volume Gallery: A Bold Leap Forward in Chicago's Art Scene
A Counter-Intuitive Expansion Amidst Market Challenges
While many art establishments grapple with economic headwinds, Volume Gallery in Chicago is charting an unexpected course. The gallery is set to launch its significantly larger space, spanning 3,500 square feet, in the West Town area on February 13. This expansion, marking the gallery's third relocation since its inception in 2010, positions it strategically near notable art venues like Mariane Ibrahim and Monique Meloche.
Founders' Resilience Forged in Economic Downturn
The co-founders, Claire Warner and Sam Vinz, bring a unique perspective shaped by past adversities. Both experienced layoffs during the 2008 economic crisis from their roles at Wright Auctions. This shared history has instilled in them a belief that challenging times can paradoxically be ripe for growth and innovation. Their decision to expand now is rooted in this philosophy, turning a downturn into an opportunity.
Inaugural Exhibition: Challenging Artistic Norms
The new venue's debut exhibition, titled “The Heresy of Legacy,” is curated to challenge conventional artistic classifications. Warner describes it as an exploration of moments when unconventional practices gain mainstream acceptance. The exhibition will feature a diverse array of artists, including those who integrate traditional craft with contemporary art, such as Selva Aparicio, Richard Artschwager, and Joyce Scott, alongside renowned architects like Stanley Tigerman.
Diverse Roster and Expansive Programming
Volume Gallery's curatorial approach emphasizes inclusivity across various artistic disciplines. Its roster includes creators working with diverse materials and forms, from Atlanta-based chairmaker Robell Awake to New York glass artist Thaddeus Wolfe. The upcoming year promises a vibrant schedule of programming, showcasing talents like Tanya Aguiñiga and Jonathan Muecke, further solidifying the gallery's commitment to a holistic view of art.
Bridging Art, Craft, and Design
The gallery's core philosophy revolves around dismantling traditional artistic hierarchies and prioritizing materiality. This approach allows Volume Gallery to engage with a wider spectrum of institutions, from contemporary art museums to departments focused on craft and design. This inclusive strategy has yielded remarkable success, with nearly a hundred works from the gallery finding homes in prestigious international museums, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Drawing Inspiration from Historical Trailblazers
When considering galleries that resonate with their cross-disciplinary ethos, Warner and Vinz look to historical figures like Max Protetch. Protetch, known for exhibiting artists like Scott Burton alongside architects such as Tadao Ando, pioneered the blending of different creative worlds. This historical precedent inspires Volume Gallery's mission to champion artists and designers who operate at the fringes of the conventional art market, similar to how Rhona Hoffman supported figures like James Wines and Vito Acconci.