Wexner Art Center
AU_2015 | Work from Jackie Gargus' Undergraduate Studio

In 2015, the Wexner family exhibited their extensive private art collection at the Wexner Center for the Arts. Thanks to the huge success of the program, it was proposed that the collection move to a permanent, public, art museum. The site decided upon is located in Downtown Columbus, a block away from the Columbus Art Museum and directly adjacent to the Columbus Art Academy. The relationship with these institutions would expand the arts scene not only in the city but also within the surrounding neighborhood.

Beyond the traditional gallery spaces, the Wexner Art Center maintains space for three artists to work and live for extended periods of time. Additionally, an auditorium and education wing allow for community engagement beyond a simple afternoon in the galleries. The project physically elevates the courtyard scheme, creating a space for the surrounding community to gather freely, while also differentiating itself from neighboring establishments

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Traveling from the city sidewalk to the courtyard, passing by the artist studios, visitors experience three scales of space - that of the city, a village, and an individual person. Contiguous corridors and partition walls begin to break down this hierarchy, allowing for moments to overlap as visitors explore the museum. The galleries and education wing, specifically, become destination points as unique fenestration allow light into the museum. Natural light guides users in this museum: from the courtyard, to the corridors, and moments of tranquility within the art galleries.
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 10 Video Gallery   

11 Auditorium   

12 Education Wing   

13 Artist Apartments   

14 Artist Studios   

15 Library & Lounge   

16 Courtyard   

17 Rooftop Terrace   

18 Artist Rooftop   

19 Parking