Dive into “Prologue,” a captivating pop-up installation and event series currently hosted at the Columbus Museum of Art’s Pizzuti Collection. This unique exhibition, aptly named “Prologue,” serves as an insightful prelude to the historical narrative embedded within the walls of 632 Park Street, the Pizzuti Collection’s location. Originally the national headquarters of the Order of United Commercial Travelers of America (UCT), this building’s past is now interwoven with contemporary art, creating a thought-provoking dialogue for visitors.
From its inception in 1923 until 2008, the Pizzuti building stood as the central hub for UCT, a fraternal society catering to traveling salespeople. In an era where door-to-door sales blurred the lines between private life and commercial intrusion, UCT played a significant role. “Prologue” cleverly uses this historical backdrop as a launchpad, juxtaposing archival UCT materials and artifacts with carefully selected modern and contemporary artworks, including pieces from the museum’s esteemed permanent collection.
This intriguing installation, situated in the second-floor galleries, delves into the multifaceted roles of artists. It explores how artists can act as agents of persuasion, sometimes even as uninvited figures entering personal spaces through their work. By placing these artworks within the context of UCT’s history, “Prologue” artfully exposes the delicate and often ambiguous boundary that separates the public and private spheres.
“Prologue” is not merely a static display; it’s a dynamic platform for public engagement. Organized in collaboration with The Ohio State University (OSU) and generously supported by OSU’s Office of Academic Affairs, the installation acts as a foundation for a series of public events. These events promise to further enrich the exhibition’s themes and provide deeper insights into the intersection of art, history, and society.
The exhibition showcases a diverse array of talent, featuring works by notable artists such as Lee Friedlander, David L. Johnson, Dionne Lee, Jack Manning, Elijah Pierce, Alison Saar, Julia Scher, Tavares Strachan, Ryan Trecartin, and Julia Weist. Notably, artists marked with an asterisk, including Lee Friedlander, Jack Manning, and Elijah Pierce, are part of the CMA permanent collection, highlighting the museum’s commitment to both historical and contemporary art.
Prepare to embark on a journey through “Prologue,” an experience that bridges history and contemporary art, prompting reflection and dialogue. Open during special monthly events and available for tour groups by appointment, “Prologue” at the Columbus Museum of Art at The Pizzuti awaits exploration from December through May 2025.
