In the age of internet, people are no longer restricted to the bounds of movement determined by their body in order to receive information, including information pertaining to artwork and concept. At roomtop, we choose to ignore the need for gallery openings, galas, and social engagements in favor of documentation for the slow digestion of passing viewers. Artists are able to display their work through the gallery site, while being granted a reprieve from the age-old struggle of storing one’s own work. We hope to build a space where artists feel cared for in the presentation of their work, and viewers feel free to think and feel without the social and physical limitations of presence with a work in a walled room.

In this space, we see artistic practice as a conglomerate of ideas expressed through action — and it is ultimately necessary to consider the intentions and histories of artists in the display of their work. That being said, this site currently expresses in 2D, and relies on scanning, photography, film, or written description to gather the relevant information to a work. This has different value than the experience of being able to hold and manipulate work, falling on words to pick up the slack in understanding. We recognize that this presents a different set of challenges than a traditionally established gallery may, and we are open to feedback on how these experiences with work can be improved for our thoughtful viewers. If you’ve gotten this far, and you have words to share, please refer to our “contact” tab and reach out so that we can optimize this experience for as many participants as possible.

Grazie mille - roomtop organization team