Artists First

Abstract

Artists First was an exhibition of eight animators and video game artists' personal work at the Kirkland Arts Center. At its core, the project celebrated the hand of the artist and was a place for people to experience the process of art creation. The project was driven by the concept of museums' ability to provide ‘good care' to their communities, and developed in response to the issues being faced by the digital entertainment industry in Seattle, namely post-pandemic job decline and the rise of generative AI. Although the exhibit was a response to pressing issues, the focal point of the exhibit and programs was the artists. Our interpretative texts highlighted the knowledge and skills artists possess and interactive stations allowed visitors the opportunity to practice their artistry. The goal of Artists First was to bring awareness, provide economic opportunities, and help build community support. In lieu of an exhibit catalog, we provided a zine with information on generative AI and union resources. The exhibit also featured an in-gallery Print Shop, where each participating artist sold at least one of their prints. We connected with community members through a collaboration with the UW Songwriters club for our opening celebration and our “Art is Fun” program. This project showcased the impact that a small, local gallery can have by listening to their community and diverging from business-as-usual to address their needs. Especially now, it is important for museums to put their communities, and their artists, first.