The Gift Shop Presents: Presents

SOL HASHEMI, JASON HIRATA and CLAIRE COWIE

OPENING Friday, November 20th 5 – 8 pm

and continuing through December 13th

The Gift Shop at the Henry Art Gallery

University of Washington, Seattle

Thu – Fri: 11 am – 9 pm

Sat – Sun: 11 am – 4 pm

Closed: Mons, Tues, Weds, & Nov. 26th

Sol, Jason, and Claire are bringing gifts back to the Gift Shop! They’re stocking the Gift Shop with presents they have made together and individually, along with contributions from their friends. During the three weeks of the exhibition anyone is invited to make a gift, bring it in, and exchange it for one they find. In the spirit of “white elephant” and “secret santa” games, this encourages speculation, anticipation, excitement (or disappointment?)—challenging each of us to confront our desires and expectations. What are you willing to give? What do you expect and hope for in return? This project examines the celebratory aspect of making art and giving, the element of surprise in getting presents and in collaborating, and the potential for new relationships and dialogue within our community.

The exchange of gifts will begin during the opening party this Friday the 20th from 5 – 8 pm. Anyone who wants to participate can wrap a gift, place it in the gallery, and choose one to take home. The gift exchange will continue during the Henry’s regular gallery hours, Friday November 20th through Sunday December 13th.

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The Gift Shop Project # 2 of 6

This is the second in a series of artist-initiated projects which temporarily re-purpose the Henry Art Gallery gift shop. We have created something very much like an autonomous, alternative artist-run exhibition space off of the museum lobby. Goals include: involving a diverse and interesting group of artists; developing means and methods which acknowledge the contingent nature of this particular site; generating new understandings of what an exhibition can be; and enjoying the pleasure and energy generated by working together. Artists! You do not have to accept the context which you are given. Create your own context! gift.shop.project@gmail.com