Project for Empty Space

I visited Gateway Project Spaces during the Newark Arts Council's Open Doors Citywide Arts Festival, which took place from October 19-23, 2016. While I've checked out the gallery here a few times previously, this was my first opportunity to explore the other floors of the space where artists had opened up their studios to the public that weekend. I was aware that there were three floors, but I didn't realize just how expansive the place was (there were a lot of artists' studios to visit). That weekend, it was really fascinating to see pieces from artists in their own personal studios and to talk with them about their work face-to-face. When you entered Gateway Project Spaces, you were greeted and then provided a map to help you navigate around. Everyone who I encountered - whether fellow visitors or artists/people associated with the organization in the hallways - were very friendly and this contributed to the cool vibe of the space. People were open to share and talk. There was a rich diversity among the artists and the media in which they work. Overall, going to Gateway Project Spaces was a wonderful experience. I definitely will visit again next year for Open Doors 2017. I recommend that you do the same.

As my sister is an artist, and one of the featured artists in this particular exhibit, I have had the privilege of attending many openings, galleries and art exhibits, but none of them hit home as much as this one. This project was done in coordination with the Newark Police and DEA ( being Newark has an overwhelming amount of heroin dealers, users and therefore, resulting in high crime and addiction related deaths. ) This exhibit deals with various phases of addiction. Anybody who has ever overcome an addiction, lost someone due to addiction or has family members who struggle with this or have friends with this problem will relate to this exhibit. The artists, some who are currently in recovery, some who overcame, parents with sons and daughters who are addicts, some young as young as 12 with knowledge of addiction but all with a common theme. The artwork submitted spoke volumes. The powerful images and what each artist had to say about their personal experience with addiction and the havoc it reeks on your mind, body and family could easily bring you to tears if you have experienced the destruction and pain firsthand. Parts of the exhibit were being filmed for a movie on topic called Epidemic H, and epidemic it is. It has hit a all new peak. I would urge everyone to see this show and support the artists and families and police that worked so hard to make this happen.

Can someone tell me how to get involved with displaying art at one of the galleries they have at Gateway plaza in Newark, NJ please? A contact name or a calendar of events...I would really appreciate it Thanks. Jim