De Pree Gallery Vision Statement

The De Pree Gallery will be

1. Contemporary: Exhibitions and programming will have a contemporary focus that engages our students in critical and theoretical debates surrounding art in today’s global society, including issues of culture, politics, identity and context. Contemporary Art is understood to be art created since World War II — work that is often challenging, “gritty” and provocative. The Gallery will be a place for contemporary formal and/or conceptual experiences.
2. Centered on Student Learning in a Global Society: The purpose of the Gallery is to enhance the education and development of Studio Art, Art History and Art Education students. As such, exhibitions and programming will emphasize professionalism, creative intuition, artistic freedom, diverse mediums and subjects, and the gallery context. The Gallery will provide students the opportunity to learn about curatorial, managerial and preparatory considerations through internships and student assistantships.
3. Interdisciplinary: The Gallery will be interdisciplinary, bridging relationships with other departments and the community whenever possible. 
4. Thematic: In keeping with the annual “Breaking Artistic Barriers Series” (first instituted in the 2013–14 academic year), the exhibitions and programming at the Gallery will focus around a theme of shared relevancy for our students, the Department and the Hope community.
5. Engaged with the Community: The Gallery will take an active role in promoting and facilitating deeper relationships with the Hope and Holland/Greater West Michigan communities through our exhibitions, programming and collaborative spirit.