Look Groups are small gatherings of people who get together regularly to talk informally about art, artists, and ideas.
Look Groups create a space to learn about art and artists and enjoy talking about art in all its forms. Because each group is led by its members, the conversations are steered by what interests the group and can take many forms. One meeting might explore various artworks connected by a theme, another might listen to different perspectives on an artist through films or presentations. Some groups travel to visit an exhibition or hear from an artist about their work in a particular medium.
Look Groups are hosted in public spaces such as a community centre, library, café, or arts venue. Wherever there is art (including online), there is an opportunity for people to look, talk and discover with others. Galleries and museums are ideal places to host a Look Group, but some groups also meet in community, education, healthcare settings. Often, a Look Group starts with a few friends getting together.
‘Being a Look Group member has enriched my life: I give art appreciation a greater priority and talk about art more with friends; our group held an exhibition that 10 local schools and over 1000 people attended - many of whom wouldn’t normally have gone to an art exhibition: this makes me feel as if I have given something back to my community.’
© Kristin Prisk 2020
