THE GALLERIES AT OLIVER ART CENTER:
The Oliver Art Center is housed in a remarkably well-renovated historic Coast Guard building that dates to 1934. Now a LEED Platinum-certified building, it is a clean and modern exhibit space that still retains the history of the bustling work that once took place within its walls. The OAC offers several unique exhibition spaces: our larger shows are staged in the contiguous Beck and Borwell Galleries, which are located on separate levels. Large window walls and a skylight in the Beck Gallery provide wonderful natural lighting and views of Lake Michigan, creating a dramatic exhibit space. Movable panels provide extra hanging space, and there is plenty of room for 3D sculpture in the open floor plan. Additionally, the South Hall is used in conjunction with this space, providing a lead-in to the main gallery.
Click the photos below for a larger view:
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| Overview of the Beck Gallery | Beck Gallery, facing north | Beck Gallery, facing west | Beck Gallery, facing east |
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| South Hall, facing south | South Hall, facing north |
The Borwell Gallery sits just below the Beck Gallery via a short set of steps, and is also accessible via elevator. With dramatic window walls and a unique architectural “bridge” catwalk, this unique space highlights the history of this former Coast Guard boathouse. Movable custom panels extend the hanging space, and sturdy pedestals offer highlighted displays for 3D work. Just off the Borwell Gallery is our Longmire Terrace, an expansive wooden deck that sits on the channel between Betsie Bay and Lake Michigan – perfect for evening receptions in the summer, when visitors can enjoy the passing sailboats and fishing vessels. The view from the bridge is a visitor favorite, especially during musical performances!
Click the photos below for a larger view:
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| Borwell Gallery, facing west | Borwell Gallery and Bridge | Borwell Gallery facing north | Borwell Gallery, facing east |
Our North Hall is utilized for a variety of special, smaller exhibits or for featured artists throughout the year. This space is broken into 3 distinct hanging areas, which can be used together or split into separate exhibits. There is some room for 3D work as well.
North Hall, facing south
The Fisher Room offers a more intimate setting, ideal for solo exhibits or smaller shows. This room features a stunning view of Betsie Bay, with plenty of natural light. Portable Pro-Panels are available to extend the hanging space, and the Fisher Room can be paired with the South Hall to create a larger exhibit opportunity.
Fisher Room panorama, facing north
GALLERY PLANS AND POLICIES:
Beck and Borwell Gallery Floor Plan (PDF)
Fisher Room and North Hall Floor Plan (PDF)
Oliver Art Center’s Nudity Policy (PDF)
WHAT DOES “GALLERY READY” MEAN?
RECOMMENDED READING FOR ALL ARTISTS WISHING TO SUBMIT WORK TO OAC:
Tips and Tricks for Finishing and Presenting 2D Artwork (PDF)
How to Finish and Present 3D Artwork (PDF)
If you have any questions regarding submission for any show, please contact Julie White Pierce by calling (231)352-4151 x102 or email gallery@oliverart.org
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