Running a faculty’s cultural space: Case study of Art4C, gallery and creative learning space

Abstract

This research examines the operation of an art space of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chulalongkorn University. The paper focuses on a case study, 'Art4C: Gallery and Creative Learning Space,' initiated by the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, the project began in early 2019 with the aim of creating a community gallery. On August 16, 2019, Art4C progressed into a physical space located in a prime area of Samyan, a popular ‘food’ district in Bangkok. The methodology employed for this space combined an analysis of existing university art spaces to identify an appropriate operational model with insights from personal experience and observation. The gallery and creative learning space operated for about six months before the COVID-19 pandemic emerged. Since its opening, the author has served as the director of Art4C, overseeing its operations from its opening in August 2019 to the completion of this paper, a period of nearly five years. The initial concept was to establish a community-centric gallery that would seamlessly integrate and collaborate with its urban surroundings. However, the community and location did not perceive Art4C as anticipated. Furthermore, Art4C encountered several challenges that necessitated significant shifts in its operational model and initial direction. Despite the challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic, digital disruption, and financial sustainability issues, Art4C has managed to establish a successful operating model, merging art and business. This paper explores the strategies and adaptations that have enabled Art4C to meet these challenges, and highlights the key lessons to be learned from the case study.