Art can be deadly formal and the most informal thing in the world – it all depends on how you interpret it. For example, a museum is considered a classic example of a serious institution responsible for preserving, collecting, and exhibiting works of fine art and antiques. At the same time, there is quite an informal and–if you will–an intimate event often called an artist’s private view. If you try to combine the two, you will receive pop-up exhibitions, a contemporary genre of exhibiting art in the 21st century. What constitutes such temporary art shows?

Key Components of Pop-up Exhibitions

Temporality

Time limits are what make pop-up exhibits special. Artists usually choose to run their own shows at a specific time when it is most convenient to present new artworks. They are spontaneous to some extent, and you shouldn’t wait for another event next year because there will be none.

Exclusivity

Pop-up exhibitions usually aim to display artworks of an artist who wants to present something fresh to the audience. It means that you will most likely feel the exclusive combination of time, space, and your persona within it. It is premier, and you are in the first row.

Interaction

Direct interaction with artists and their art is probably the most valuable component of pop-up exhibitions. You won’t be able to do it at museums and galleries, so you can visit pop-ups instead. First and foremost, it is a painter’s or sculptor’s workshop where they share their discoveries with the audience. People can not only enter into dialogue with an artist but also become part of the exhibition and contribute to the creation of new pieces.

Convenience

Those three components mostly work for visitors but not artists themselves. That is why it pays to mention convenience as another positive element of a pop-up event. It takes much less money and time to organize a small pop-up gathering than a complete art exhibition. Nowadays, many artists have a positive attitude towards temporary workshops, as it is relatively less expensive to gain popularity there rather than try to get into closed-door art exhibitions.

Why Should You Visit a Pop-up Exhibit?

Now, when you know what pop-up exhibitions are made from, you can go and visit such an event for yourself. There are basically two ways how you can benefit from it. First, it is a hands-on experience as you take part in the show. Second, it is a perfect chance to become part of the community and make friends with people with mutual interests. Don’t ignore the pop-up museums, as once you miss them, you lose them forever.