What if art could build community? FiveMyles is not just a gallery. It is a hub where art and community connect right here in Crown Heights Brooklyn.
FiveMyles was founded in 1999. Hanne Tierney established it as a non-profit. Its mission is to advance public interest in experimental work. It identifies and exhibits under-represented artists. FiveMyles also engages the local community through the arts. The gallery is wheelchair accessible.
Tierney named FiveMyles after her son Myles. He was a filmmaker killed while covering the war in Sierra Leone. The first exhibit showcased African photojournalism.
FiveMyles operates differently than commercial galleries. It features lesser-known artists. These artists often come from Crown Heights. Many are from the African continent and the Caribbean.
In 2000 FiveMyles received an Obie Grant. This was for presenting magnificent contemporary performance work. Programming in 2005 included visual art exhibitions. It also featured Tierney’s multimedia theatrical puppetry.
Exhibitions at FiveMyles present opportunities for artists. They can show their work in solo and group settings. Place personal vision politics identity and experimentation are integral. Exhibitions are often inspired by non-Western cultures. They include photography and video from East Africa. Contemporary Native and Caribbean art is also featured.
Major publications have lauded FiveMyles. These include The New York Times and Art in America.
In fiscal year 2023 FiveMyles organized many exhibitions. There were 20 solo and group shows. These took place in the Main Gallery and Plus/Space. The gallery presented 93 visual artists. Conversations with speakers from the Humanities were organized for 5 exhibitions. The SpaceProgram offers the gallery for live performances. In fiscal year 2023 26 SpaceProgram events occurred. They presented live music poetry spoken word and dance. 61 artists participated. About 4200 people attended FiveMyles programs. All events and exhibitions are free.
FiveMyles has received vital support from many organizations.
FiveMyles presented “Maps” in December 2021. This was a two-person exhibition. It featured Betty Yu and Sari Carel. Betty Yu’s work uncovered stories from Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. Sari Carel’s project focused on the relationship between New Yorkers and trees.
You can visit FiveMyles Thursday through Sunday. The hours are 1 pm to 6 pm. You can also visit by appointment. It is within walking distance of the Brooklyn Museum.
FiveMyles stands as a testament to the power of art. It fosters community. It honors a legacy. It provides a space for under-represented voices. It is a place where everyone is welcome.