Art exhibitions
Exhibitions are displayed at the gallery on the lower level of Central Library. The gallery is open during regular library hours.
The gallery has 140 feet of wall space. It is equipped with a track system with as many as 50 hanging cables that hold up to 15 pounds each. Large pieces will require more cables. It is the artists’ responsibility to ensure enough cables are used to sufficiently hold their work.
Exhibitions are approximately six weeks long (allowing for installation and dismantling). The artist is responsible for installing the exhibit, creating the labels and taking down the show. Artwork must be framed or mounted and equipped with wire on the back for proper hanging.
The library does not carry insurance for special exhibit artwork. It is the artist's responsibility to obtain insurance if they feel the need to do so. All artists will be required to sign an artist agreement/waiver. Alarm-coded security stickers are provided for each piece of artwork.
An opening reception is held for each artist. Refreshments are the responsibility of the artist and must be prepared in a commercial facility (store-bought or catered).
The library does not take a commission for any piece that may sell. Buyers are asked to contact the artist directly.
Applying for a gallery exhibit
Interested in showcasing your art at the library? Artists need at least 20 pieces of artwork, framed or mounted, to fill the space.
If you qualify and would like to apply for a gallery exhibit, complete this application form. Please include at least three photographs of your work.
Completed applications and accompanying photographs can be delivered to Central Library, c/o Stephanie Donkers-Schmalz, or emailed to stephanie.donkers-schmalz@kpl.org
Due to the popularity of the program only those selected to display their artwork will be contacted.
To see what’s currently on display, visit our art exhibits page.
Artist-at-Work
The Artist-at-Work program features artists or an organization of artists who demonstrate their craft in a main traffic area of the library.
An artist at work performs a two-hour demonstration with the date decided upon between the artist and the library. Examples of past demonstrations include stained glass, soap making, jewelry making, pen and ink sketching, and more.
Interested in hosting a demonstration? Please complete the Artist-at-Work application.
Completed application forms may be delivered to Central Library, c/o Stephanie Donkers-Schmalz, or emailed to stephanie.donkers-schmalz@kpl.org.
