112 Greene Street

Definition

112 Greene Street is an iconic art space located in New York City that played a pivotal role in the development of Minimalism and Conceptual Art during the late 1960s and early 1970s. This former warehouse became a hub for artists seeking to challenge traditional artistic conventions and create more accessible forms of art. The space emphasized community and collaboration, raising important discussions about elitism and accessibility within the contemporary art scene.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 112 Greene Street was founded in 1970 by artists Robert Morris, Richard Serra, and others as a collaborative exhibition space.
2. The space hosted numerous influential exhibitions, including works by notable artists like Donald Judd, Dan Flavin, and Bruce Nauman.
3. 112 Greene Street was not a commercial gallery; it aimed to provide a platform for experimental work that challenged the elitist nature of traditional art institutions.
4. The emergence of this space coincided with a growing movement towards making art more accessible to the general public, rather than being confined to elite galleries.
5. The legacy of 112 Greene Street continues to influence contemporary discussions about accessibility in the art world, particularly concerning who gets to participate in the creation and appreciation of art.

Review Questions

• How did 112 Greene Street contribute to the discussion of accessibility in art during its operational years?
  • 112 Greene Street created an environment where artists could showcase their work outside traditional gallery settings, which often catered to elite audiences. By providing a space for experimental art and fostering collaboration among artists, it opened up new avenues for creativity and engagement. This approach directly challenged the exclusivity of conventional art institutions and encouraged broader participation from diverse audiences.
• In what ways did 112 Greene Street reflect the tensions between elitism and accessibility in the art world?
  • 112 Greene Street served as a counterpoint to elite galleries by prioritizing community involvement over commercial success. It showcased works that were often conceptual or minimalistic, emphasizing ideas rather than traditional aesthetics. This focus on accessibility helped dismantle barriers that typically kept certain audiences from engaging with contemporary art. The space's commitment to inclusivity highlighted the ongoing struggle within the art world to balance artistic integrity with public engagement.
• Evaluate the impact of 112 Greene Street on subsequent movements in contemporary art concerning accessibility and elitism.
  • 112 Greene Street set a precedent for future alternative art spaces by demonstrating that art could thrive outside of conventional commercial frameworks. Its emphasis on collaboration and community involvement inspired subsequent movements that sought to democratize access to art-making and appreciation. The legacy of this space can be seen in today's diverse range of artist-run galleries and non-profit organizations that prioritize accessibility and challenge elitist structures within the contemporary art scene. As a result, it has helped foster a more inclusive dialogue around who can create and engage with art.

Related terms

SoHo: A neighborhood in Manhattan known for its cast-iron architecture and vibrant arts scene, which became a hotspot for artists and galleries in the 1960s.

Fluxus: An avant-garde movement that emerged in the 1960s, focusing on experimental art forms and intermedia, emphasizing the importance of ideas over traditional aesthetics.

Artists' Space: A non-profit organization that provides artists with a platform to present their work, fostering innovative practices and community engagement.