Wynwood's famous Dorsch Gallery is about to unveil its new identity, Extreme Makeover-style. Tonight, the newly renovated space will re-open with new exhibitions, a new layout, and a brand new moniker to match.
Emerson Dorsch, as the gallery is now named, is a partnership between husband and wife team Brook Dorsch and Tyler Emerson-Dorsch -- and the name change reflects their joint vision. The new space debuts tonight with In a Perfect World, a sculpture show by Brookhart Jonquil, and Relay, a project by Rene Barge.
See also:
- Brook Dorsch: Father Wynwood
"The name change reflects the partnership between Brook Dorsch and I. The new space solidifies our position to act as a cultural hub and a networking force in a larger conversation. The drastic renovations allow for us to have a more committed focus than ever before, with a single main space and a project room," says co-owner Tyler Emerson-Dorsch.
While they're keeping many details of the new look and layout hush-hush (who doesn't love surprises?), here's what we do know: It boasts a whopping 3,500 square feet, with more than 1,500 of that dedicated to exhibition space. There's a new foyer and reception area, a project room (which will feature experimental works by emerging artists), and a main exhibition space.
The overall layout was designed by Patricia Cuello of Dharma Construction, an architect specializing in efficient, function-driven designs that utilize readily available materials. The interior was crafted by Jacob Brillhart AIA, an author and Assistant Professor at the University of Miami School of Architecture.
"The main exhibition is Brookhart Jonquil's In a Perfect World, which is the perfect compliment to the experience of the new space. His last major project was at the de la Cruz Collection last April, Inverted Night. Jonquil utilizes reflection to create new perceptual experiences that allude to dimensionality, in all senses of the word -- literally, metaphorically, poetically," Emerson-Dorsch adds.
The project is a series of large scale sculptures, crafted from fiberglass rods and angled mirrors.
"In the Project Room, Rene Barge will present Relay, a dynamic project that results in sculptures with sounds from their own creation, with new pieces and sounds being rebuilt and remade throughout the length of the exhibition," she says.
Barge's displays are crafted from plywood and utilize the actual sounds involved in their physical build.
And what can art enthusiasts expect from the space in the future?
"Upcoming exhibitions will enforce a conversation between artists in Miami and out, bringing in work from Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and overseas," Emerson-Dorsch says.
So don your art-appreciation hat for tonight's opening, and expect some big things from the newly named gallery. The event runs from 6 to 10 p.m. at 151 NW 24th St.
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