Art at BBG: Artist Registry
If you are interested in being considered for future exhibits on BBG’s grounds or the indoor Conservatory Gallery, you may upload basic information about your work through the form below.
Preliminary project ideas are encouraged, but we are also interested in identifying artists to approach for future collaborations. Exhibits are typically planned at least 2 years in advance, and it may be several years from the time we receive materials until a project is realized.
The Garden receives many proposals and only has capacity to explore a few artist partnerships each year. Due to the high volume of submissions we receive, BBG will respond only to artists with whom we are interested in working.
Artist Registry
Before submitting, please carefully review the requirements for art installations and exhibitions at BBG and browse past art projects, to make sure your work is a good fit.
Art installations and exhibitions at Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) explore the relationships between people and the environment. Ideal projects celebrate the power of art to spark curiosity, deepen appreciation for the natural world, and inspire environmental stewardship.
BBG is first and foremost a museum of plants. Installations and exhibitions must be sensitive, respectful, and planned in coordination with BBG staff, taking into account site limitations and the staffing, equipment, and support resources the Garden has available.
Horticultural and Facilities Considerations
- Designs and installation plans must be approved by BBG in advance to ensure they meet needs for horticulture, facilities, infrastructure, and plants. Designs and installations must allow for lawn, tree, and plant care.
- No additional plants may be added unless approved by BBG. If plants are approved, a plan for care must be created in collaboration with BBG staff.
- Irrigation pipes and drains run throughout the Garden; plans must account for these site conditions. All ponds and water features have liners or sensitive bases that cannot be impacted. Designs for these spaces may need to be reviewed by an additional consultant.
- Several areas have additional restrictions, including the Fragrance Garden, Lily Pool Terrace, and the Osborne Garden, where surrounding bluestone work cannot sustain the weight of heavy equipment such as forklifts.
Fabrication, Installation, and Storage Considerations
- BBG is unable to provide studio or work space; major fabrication should be completed offsite.
- BBG does not have installation vehicles, equipment, or staff. These typically need to be acquired by the artist and covered by the artist’s budget.
- All installation needs—mounts, footings, installation, maintenance, unpacking/packing, additional deinstall, site restoration, etc.—should be part of the artist budget.
- BBG has limited storage space. Crates and packing materials must be stored offsite.
Security and Maintenance Considerations
- BBG has 24-hour roaming security staff but does not have security stationed next to art pieces. Artists must consider potential damage or instability stemming from the presence of visitors and outdoor environmental conditions.
- Additionally, BBG does not have staffing for maintenance of pieces during the run of the show. The artist’s budget should cover these services. BBG will immediately inform the artist of any damage or maintenance needs.
- The artist budget should cover all insurance of artwork during shipping to and from the Garden. BBG covers insurance onsite during the show.
Conservatory Gallery: Considerations for Indoor Exhibitions
- BBG requires that artists utilize the provided hanging system; nails or screws may not be used in the walls.
- The Gallery can accommodate video work on monitors, but the lighting conditions make projected or immersive video installations more challenging.
- Small three-dimensional works may be presented on pedestals or in small display cases. However, as a multipurpose space with heavy foot traffic, the Gallery usually cannot accommodate large, freestanding sculptures or installations.
- The Gallery space is not climate-controlled.