About Us
SmartSpaces presents contemporary art in the windows of vacant storefronts. We bring empty spaces back to life and make art accessible to everyone, while energizing local communities. SmartSpaces is a connector and producer. We work with different curators and curating organizations to select art for each space, transforming vacant properties into public venues for contemporary art while providing information and tools to engage and inform the public.
Our Mission
• Showcase contemporary artists
• Revitalize dark, empty spaces with art
• Make art accessible to the general public
• Educate and engage people with with instant access to information through signage and interactive technologies
• Bring foot traffic to local businesses and communities
Our Story
SmartSpaces was incorporated in November 2007 by Ellen Scott, with the vision to create a sustainable, scaleable platform for public art in storefronts, while providing high quality educational and informational materials. She conceived a network in which SmartSpaces partners with curators/artists and real estate owners to install contemporary art into empty storefronts. Her innovative approach is to partner with both the content providers as well as the property owners, aligning the interests of all parties through simultaneous promotion of both art and spaces for lease. Gathering a team of art and community minded professionals, the organization has installed three contemporary art exhibitions in storefronts around New York City since 2008, with a fourth exhibition, Lisa Kirk’s Revolution!, opening May 1, 2010 at 1133 Broadway.
SmartSpaces now relies on the experience of nine committed Board members and advisors who have donated their expertise to these projects. In the fall of 2009, SmartSpaces invited Stacey Goergen to curate a show at 88 Greenwich Street, a collaboration that has evolved into a working partnership. In February 2010, Stacey Goergen joined as Ellen’s partner to help expand the organization to a broader base through an increased number of exhibitions, an expanded education and information program, and a larger audience. In 2010, SmartSpaces is on track to produce four exhibitions.
Fiscal sponsorship from Fractured Atlas enables SmartSpaces to receive tax-deductible donations while SmartSpaces applies for independent 501c3 status.
