Artist FAQs

for all other FAQs please click here

Do you accept proposals?
No, currently we're a space for hire, open access with no curatorial input or selection criteria, though that might change in the future. Our curatorial project Panrucker is also unable to accept proposals.

Can I have the space for free or at an even lower rate?
Generally, no - we've already reduced our rates as far as we can while staying afloat. But occasionally we have last minute cancellations or unbooked slots - join our mailing list to hear about these first and follow @threerooms_e17 for very late discounts.

Can I hire the space for just a few days?
Unfortunately no, we hire in blocks of one week Tuesday 9am to Monday 5pm to avoid 'orphan' days.

Can I start my booking on a day other than Tuesday?
Hire blocks start on Tuesday so you can be open on both Saturday and Sunday to maximise visitors, and de-install Monday. It's usually no problem to check you in and out on other days, but the hire blocks themselves are fixed.

General

What do you provide for openings/private views?
There’s a fridge to cool drinks and a small table to put them on. You’ll need to provide glasses or paper cups for your guests.
We can provide a blank floorplan as a .png, .svg or .pdf for your exhibition guide/prices handout.

Can I have a performance at my opening?
Yes! If it's going to be loud, please have a chat with us first.

How late can my opening run?
We depend on our neighbours' continued tolerance, so we’ve already committed to an 8pm finish for evening events. If this feels early, let people know where the after drinks will be on your IG posts - there are loads of good places nearby with different vibes.

Openings

Why do you have a hanging system?
To keep our rates this low we need to minimise maintenance and downtime - a hanging rail is the best way to do that. It can cope with most things including heavy works and wall-hung sculpture. If you’ve had ‘tipping’ issues with hanging systems in the past, don’t worry - this can be completely prevented using command strips and we’ll show you how. Download our hanging system information sheet for more info.

How long are the cords and how many are there?
There are 40+ at approx 1.5m, and 10 at 3m long. Only bigger works require two cords. Any excess cord can be looped and tucked behind works.

Can I stick work or texts directly to walls with Bluetack or tape?
No. Bluetack, ‘non-staining’ white tack, masking and other tapes all leave marks, whether that’s oil, residue or finger marks, increasing maintenance costs over time, so these are not allowed. In limited circumstances it’s possible to use command strips - check with us before booking.

What equipment do you provide for installation?
There are four plinths for your use, and two hanging rods for very heavy work.
The hanging caddy contains five types of hook, a tape measure, picture wire, clear nylon cord, adhesive spacers, plus painters and magic tape for tidying cords.
There are two stepladders, one tall, one short.
There’s also spirit level and a laser level. See our full kit list here.

Is tech help included in the rate?
We’ll show you how to use the hanging system and can advise if required, but you’ll need to do the install yourself or hire a tech to help you.

Installing your work

Is invigilation included in the rate?
No! But we provide two sets of keys so you can share the load. You can leave a set at our house two minutes away for a helper to pick up if that makes things easier.

Do I need public liability insurance?
Yes - but artists who are members of A-N.co.uk are automatically insured, and if you’re studying you might be insured through your institution.

Can I give an artist talk in the space during my hire?
Yes, absolutely. You’ll need to provide chairs if you want them, but the floor is fine for sitting (maybe with a quick mop).

Can I give a workshop during my hire?
Yes, we’re open to almost anything which won’t cause damage or be really loud, so please check with us before booking. Unfortunately we can’t accommodate children’s workshops. You'll need to provide tables and chairs if required.

Can we use the garden?
Yes, for lunch breaks etc, and outside sculpture can be installed in the garden to be viewed from inside. The garden itself isn’t accessible to the public yet.

Can the front area be used?
Yes it can as long as you don't extend onto the pavement itself. Best to bring everything inside when the gallery is closed.

What is a heating cap?
We cap what’s included in the hire rate at £75 per week, which is plenty for normal winter heating. Without the cap we’d have to raise hire rates for everyone to cover people who want the space very hot/ leave the door open in winter/ heating on all night etc!
We take a gas meter reading at handover and again at checkout. Units up to the value of £75 from our business supplier YU are included in the hire fee, as is the daily standing charge. Any units used over the value of £75 will be deducted from your deposit.

During your booking

Will you promote my exhibition on your Instagram?
Yes, add @threerooms_e17 as a collaborator to your exhibition flier/announcements and we’ll post them to our grid and stories. We post future shows on Mondays to avoid clashing with the current show. We’ll post your PV post to our stories too on the Monday before your opening.

Can you help me with other aspects of promotion?
Yes, we have an info sheet about how else to promote your show which we’ll send when you book.

Do you have A-boards?
Yes, one for outside the gallery, another to leave near the busy Orford Rd shops and cafes. Both take A3 posters. See our full kit list here.

Do you provide posters and/or window vinyls?
No, you'll have to provide these yourselves if you want them - we have some good recommendations.

Promoting your show