About

See a virtual tour of the Artlab: click above to explore the 2016 Faculty/Staff exhibition

Mandate

Located in the John Labatt Visual Arts Centre at Western University, the artLAB Gallery and Cohen Commons, are vital facilities within the Department of Visual Arts. Our primary focus is to act as a pedagogical tool, to support student and faculty-led research and production. Exhibitions provide a platform to respond to pertinent social and cultural issues, and/or explore conceptual, formal and material-based interests. Able to accommodate a wide range of media, both the artLAB and Cohen Commons provide space for professionalization, as well as experimental approaches to exhibition making. In addition to the director, the artLAB gallery employs a gallery preparator and work study students, while also hosting internships. 

Submission Policy

While the artLAB does not accept unsolicited submissions, the Steering Committee and Department of Visual Arts are open to projects and initiatives that have the potential to engage with the Western community, as well as local, regional and international cultural workers.  

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusiveness

The artLAB Gallery and Cohen Commons align with the values and commitments toward, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion as articulated by Western’s Equity & Human Rights Services (EHRS). We are committed to fostering a safe space where critical dialogue and diverse perspectives are heard and valued. Learning is only possibly in an environment shaped by equity, diversity and inclusion; we are actively working to identify and dismantle systemic barriers that limit participation. This commitment is an ongoing process—one that requires daily engagement, learning, and action.

If you have concerns or require support, we invite you to connect with our team.

Accessibility

We are a fully accessible facility. There is elevator access to both spaces from the front entrace of the John Labatt Visual Arts Centre and ground-floor access from our adjoining parking lots. Our building is outfitted with push-button automatic door openers. The Artlab has an accessible gender-neutral, self-contained washroom and there are two gendered, accessible public washrooms in close proximity to the Cohen Commons. During gallery hours, staff are on-site and able to assist with physical access to the building and facilities.
 
We gratefully acknowledge the assistance of The Faculty of Arts and Humanities at Western University.