Look Groups are small gatherings of people who get together regularly to talk informally about art, artists, and ideas
Look Groups create a space to learn about art and artists and enjoy talking about art in all its forms. Because each group is led by its members, the conversations are steered by what interests the group and can take many forms. One meeting might explore various artworks connected by a theme, another might listen to different perspectives on an artist through films or presentations. Some groups travel to visit an exhibition or hear from an artist about their work in a particular medium.
Look Groups are hosted in public spaces such as a community centre, library, café, or arts venue. Wherever there is art (including online), there is an opportunity for people to look, talk and discover with others. Galleries and museums are ideal places to host a Look Group, but some groups also meet in community, education, healthcare settings. Often, a Look Group starts with a few friends getting together.
‘Being a Look Group member has enriched my life: I give art appreciation a greater priority and talk about art more with friends; our group held an exhibition that 10 local schools and over 1000 people attended - many of whom wouldn’t normally have gone to an art exhibition: this makes me feel as if I have given something back to my community.’
© Kristin Prisk 2020
Anyone can join a Look Group or start a new one, no knowledge of art is required. Being in a Look Group is a wonderful way to make new friendships whilst learning about art. Members say they enjoy the discussions that come from bringing together different perspectives and ideas; they value the freedom to contribute feelings about art in conversations where there are no right or wrong answers.
‘I enjoy the opportunity to interact with the other members of my group. I learn things that would otherwise have passed me by. They very often have a very different way of looking at things to me and that is refreshing.’
These guiding principles, produced by Look Groups, describe the unique values of the network. In their words, Look Groups are:
- Inclusive – we have different experiences, knowledge, and opinions. All are equally welcome. A diversity of viewpoints makes our meetings interesting; we listen to, and respect, each other.
- Democratic – we share the authority to decide how we want to structure our time together and all ideas and interests are treated equally. Everyone is invited and encouraged to contribute.
- Curious – we have a wide and open view of what art can be and where to find it.
- Bold – we are open to the unexpected and take part even if we think we may not like the topic or artist.
- Self-led – we take responsibility for organising and leading activities between ourselves.
- Active – we participate in discussions, through research or by bringing materials for the interest and enjoyment of others. We also explore galleries and exhibitions together.
- Light-hearted – we are relaxed about learning and enjoy ourselves!
- Ambassadors for Art – we share our enthusiasm for art with our communities
‘I like the fact that you can give your view without fear of looking a fool! It is helping me because I have been ill and out of contact with others.’
Why not start a Look Group where you live or find out whether there is one in your local community? We have three toolkits available to support you that can be downloaded below.
If you’re an individual or small group, read the Look Group Toolkit for individuals to find out how to kick start your own.
If you are already a member of a Look Group, see the Look Group Toolkit for existing Look Groups, for tips and support.
If you are a community venue, museum, gallery, or other cultural organisation, see the Look Group Toolkit for organisations and community venues for more about the benefits of Look Groups and how to utilise the open source framework for your communities.
You do not have to live in Cornwall to start your own Look Group, Look Groups can be based anywhere in the world!
Initiated by Tate St Ives, the Look Group project began in 2009. You can read more about the story behind Look Groups here.
‘One of the things about rural areas, there are plenty of people about, but meeting people with common interests can be hard; it’s been really good for that, and our friendships are quite strong’
