Opportunistic curating

Apparently, some artists and curators in London are turning otherwise empty storefronts into temporary gallery/exhibition spaces. The benefits for all involved are clear: The artists get to move their work from studios into more visible spaces, curators can practice their craft, landlords have a more appealing spot to market to longer-term tenants, and neighborhoods have activity and bustle in a spot that otherwise might carry a whiff of dereliction. What's not to like?

There's a location in my neighborhood that would be perfect for this kind of experiment. A card & tschochke shop/Lotto outlet left a large space down the street a year ago, and the "for rent" sign and dusty interior don't do much for the aesthetic appeal of the block. Lots of windows, some 2,000 sf of space, and a site just a couple of blocks from the subway = appeal for artists wanting exposure. Plus, it's just a dozen or so yards away from the former home of Reena Spaulings Fine Art. Any takers?