We accumulate knowledge in stacks. Libraries store books in dense networks of shelves called “stacks,” where each shelf holds information, research, and stories. Museums and galleries keep their art in “stacks”—racks, cubbies, and drawers. Artists often make piles of their work and materials.
The Stacks was an archive of art objects ranging from salvaged painted walls from a recently closed DIY art space in Denver to new artworks made to be shown on shelves and in drawers that resemble card catalogues. This accumulation of material was the product of ongoing research into the intersecting facets of creative communities in Denver and studio practices across the country. The works engaged with the idea of the archive and the aesthetic of the library.
The exhibition included artwork by Derrick Velasquez (b. 1982, Lodi, California), Colin Ward (1991-2018), Amna Asghar (b. 1984), Sierra Montoya Barela (b. Denver), Marco Cousins (b. Colorado), Thomas Scharfenberg (b. Denver), Patrice Renee Washington (b. Chicago), Cory Feder, Adam Gildar, Stephan Herrera, Jovencio de la Paz, and Raúl Romero.