Spotlight On Running A New Gallery

THE NAME “ICE HOUSE GALLERY” IS DERIVED FROM THE HISTORY OF THE BUILDING - IT ORIGINALLY SERVED AS A COLD STORAGE FACILITY FOR MASSIVE BLOCKS OF ICE, WHICH WERE DISTRIBUTED THROUGHOUT THE SURROUNDING AREA.

By JACQUELINE LEWIS

In the middle of the most challenging market circumstances, I talked to two galleries in Chicago that are both practically brand new businesses. The owners of both Ice House Gallery and FLXST Contemporary were both candid about what it takes to open and successfully run a new art gallery as well as how to meet obstacles head on. The directors of both galleries allowed us a peek into their experiences by answering questions about successes and difficulties and gave sage advice to anyone considering opening their own art space.

ICE HOUSE GALLERY

Gallery Owner and Director Hannah Litvan opened Ice House Gallery to support, connect and celebrate all things art in Evanston. The gallery is multifaceted. They currently offer community classes and exhibitions while continuing to expand their programming.

Why: Hannah noticed that the Evanston area art scene was in need of a gallery that catered to local artists. She desired to create a space for local artists of all levels to showcase their work and gain gallery experience.

Background Planning: Before opening, Hannah networked and developed relationships with local artists and other art spaces in order to cultivate some buzz around Ice House’s grand opening! Of course, there was a lot of background administrative work to even reach that point. Originally, the gallery was looking to find a smaller space but after finding this larger, current location, Hannah saw this as an opportunity for future expansion. Ice House can now grow beyond its original vision based on the space’s evolving needs. Challenges: Hannah believes that marketing and media are extremely important for any business, especially in today’s climate. “Marketing is always changing and you really have to self educate to stay on top of it.” Ice House’s team overcomes this ever evolving situation through a solid team of employees that seamlessly blend imaging and public presentation. Coming together as this community also lessens the stresses of running a new business.

Successes: “Staying open for any small business, let alone an art business, is a major accomplishment!” Through flexibility and by listening to the community’s needs, Ice House has survived and thrived. They are now updating the gallery space to look more sleek, while adding a professional stage for live performances. They are also expanding their programming with Art Maker’s Outpost. This is a new space for creative workshops that will utilize recycled materials from the community.

Tipping Point: “It’s happening right now!” While the new renovations shift the gallery towards a more “high-end” vibe, Hannah believes that Ice House is entering its next phase to become an established fixture in the Chicago area art scene.

Advice: “It’s not easy, but that’s okay! Art is a fluid world and you have to find your niche. You really have to devote yourself to your vision, but listen to your artists and patrons to ensure you’re opening a space that can fill gaps in your art community.”

ARTIST JEFFREY AUGUSTINE SONGCO’S SPRING 2020 EXHIBITION, COMMERCIAL BREAK, WAS PUBLICLY POSTPONED BUT DID TAKE PLACE ON FLXST CONTEMPORARY’S WEBSITE

FLXST CONTEMPORARY

FLXST Contemporary is a fine art and photography incubator located in Chicago. Jan Christine Bernabe, the Chief Creative & Operations Director, launched the gallery in June 2019. The gallery holds evocative and uncompromising shows full