Several other initiatives at the gallery foster experiential learning—from the many activities led by the gallery’s student organization, the Mandeville Art Collective, to guided tours. Further, all of the exhibitions actively nurture partnerships and connections across the campus community, including students, faculty and alumni.
For instance, the current LaJuné McMillian commission for the exterior video façade of the gallery, “The Portal’s Keeper,” was created through a workshop with UC San Diego students, co-sponsored by the Black Studies Project (BSP). And the upcoming exhibition “Helen and Newton Harrison: California Work” was curated by alumna Tatiana Sizonenko, Ph.D. ’13.
Additionally, students are connected to professional opportunities beyond UC San Diego. These have included internships with museums in Balboa Park and mixers with the San Diego Emerging Museum Professionals Group.
“Training the next generation of arts leaders is an important part of our mission,” said Moss. “The students who engage with the gallery carry on its highly innovative, experimental and socially conscious approach in their own career trajectories. This is one of the most fulfilling parts of my work.”