Supplement Gallery's Artist-Run Model Emphasizes Dialogue Over Commercial Pace in London
Supplement, a nonprofit gallery located in Bethnal Green, London, was established in 2008 by artist Adam Thomas and curator Thom O'Nions. Originally a workshop with just a wall for displays, it has transformed into a venue for 20 exhibitions, primarily featuring solo works by postgraduate artists. In 2012, the gallery was gearing up for a solo show by Steve Bishop, who had his first exhibition there in May 2008. O'Nions and Thomas prioritize collaboration over solo displays, encouraging dialogue that reflects their initial studio conversations. They voice concerns about artist-run spaces being appropriated by larger institutions, recalling their past participation in the X Initiative and Tate Modern's No Soul for Sale festivals in 2009 and 2010.
Key facts
- Supplement was founded in 2008 in Bethnal Green, London, by Adam Thomas and Thom O'Nions.
- The gallery has presented 20 exhibitions, mostly solo shows for younger postgraduate artists.
- Steve Bishop had a solo exhibition at Supplement in May 2008 and was installing another in 2012.
- The gallery emphasizes collaborative dialogue over solo artist installations.
- Supplement evolved from a studio where discussions about art theory were common.
- Financial limitations allow for slow-paced exhibition development and informal artist talks.
- The gallery participated in X Initiative and Tate Modern's No Soul for Sale festivals in 2009 and 2010.
- Supplement operates with material standards akin to commercial galleries but at a slower production rate.
Entities
Artists
- Adam Thomas
- Thom O'Nions
- Steve Bishop
Institutions
- Supplement
- Goldsmiths
- X Initiative
- Tate Modern
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- Bethnal Green
- New York
- United States