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Start your own FLAG!

If you’re operating or planning to start a Free Little Art Gallery, this page lists best practices, ideas, and my own theories about how to do it well.

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Curated shows

Some FLAGs try to mix it up by putting on the occasional curated show. They might put out a call for works on a particular topic, or work with one or two artists on a show of just their work. The gallery might at that time be closed to normal take/leave art — perhaps it would be locked.

This can be a good way to capture a little attention. It’s an excuse to send an announcement to local media, reminding people the gallery’s there. People might notice the gallery looks different today — there might be a banner — and stop to see what’s up.

For single-artist shows, the works might be for sale, or there might just be a sign to tell people where to find their other work. Unless it’s “in the full-size gallery down the street,” this would normally be a website URL, perhaps with a QR code for convenience. It’s a good way to boost the work of artists you think need more exposure — and they don’t need to be the originals, if the artist doesn’t normally work in that size, you could use photos.

I’d be interested to know whether there are any FLAGs that incorporate a permanent or occasional curated space combined with a take/leave area. They could be in the same cabinet, with one locking shelf for display-only and the rest open to the public.

Managing the gallery

Your gallery needs to be monitored regularly — daily is good. Make sure the contents are in line with community standards, that the door wasn’t left open, that it’s not too full or too empty. If there are new pieces, document them on your Instagram feed and credit the artist. It’s nice to recruit a management team so you can have someone check on the gallery if you’re away.

It’s a good idea to remove pieces when the gallery is full, to create a reserve for lean times.

While you may regard the gallery as chiefly a resource for your neighbors, there’s a wider world of people who might like to participate and would like to mail you stuff. If you create a map listing here, you can specify what sort of pieces you’re interested in — sizes, media, subjects — and whether people can mail things without checking with you first. Even if you mean the gallery as just for your neighborhood, there are probably people nearby who will never run across it unless it’s on the map for them to find, so please create that listing!

Extras

Some things people often add to their FLAGs, and some uncommon things I wish people would do.

  • Decorate the outside like a boss! I love it when the gallery itself is a work of art.
  • Water bowl for dogs (but if you do this I think you have to commit to keeping it clean).
  • Painted rock zone around the base. The colorful rocks are eye-catching and don’t require protection from weather.
  • Solar powered lighting. In the evening, a lighted cabinet full of art is noticeable and inviting to passersby.
  • Weathervanes!

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