Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Does it cost anything to visit the University Galleries?
A: No. All exhibitions and related programs are free. Parking at USD is also free, but you must receive a parking permit from the kiosk located at the USD's two main entrances.
Q: Why so many galleries at USD?
A: By locating its galleries throughout the campus, each with its own focus, it is possible to have a variety of distinct experiences and for visits to be as short, or long, as desired.
Q: Can groups visit the galleries/collections outside of the posted hours?
A: Groups larger than 10 are encouraged to schedule an appointment to visit the galleries. Professors coming with their classes are especially encouraged to do this at least 48 hours in advance. Based on staff availability and pre-planning, it should be possible for visits to take place outside of the posted hours.
Q: Is photography permitted in the galleries?
A: In most cases, photography in the galleries is not permitted. Special exceptions can be made for students and media professionals, but this permission must be secured in advance. Flash photography is never allowed, however.
Q: Why are there no weekend hours?
A: The University Galleries intend to serve audiences at USD above others. Recent analysis of our annual visitation patterns show that most gallery visitors tend to come during the week, when classes are in session. Evening hours on Thursdays enable off-campus visitors to take advantage of gallery programs after work, especially since most of these programs are deliberately planned for this night. Exceptional weekend hours may be planned on an occasional basis in conjunction with special exhibitions. Please consult the University Galleries home page events section for details.
Q: Are there books or other research resources associated with the University Galleries that I can use?
A: Yes. The Hoehn Print Study Room is open to the public from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. on Wednesdays without charge. It houses a significant library related to print culture. Visitors are encouraged to consult this library if they have specific questions. Additionally, Copley Library on the USD campus has a large art book collection. Both book collections are now searchable on line.
Q: Does the University of San Diego accept gifts of art or other funds in support of its gallery programs?
A: Yes. We welcome gifts of museum quality prints, photographs, and Native American artifacts (note: artifacts that are associated with graves or sacred rituals will not be considered out of respect for tribes). Gifts of art will be reviewed by a curatorial advisory committee that is tasked with determining what is appropriate before being accessioned to the permanent collection. This committee meets twice a year. A Print Society was created in 2013 to support acquisitions, exhibitions, and other programs in that area. Contact Derrick Cartwright, Director of University Galleries for more information on how to become involved in supporting specific projects.
Q: Is there someone on staff who can tell me what my art is worth?
A: Best practices in the museum profession guide us away from offering monetary appraisals of works of art. As a courtesy, we can provide interested parties with a list of qualified appraisers who conduct evaluations of art (usually on a fee basis) within our region.
Q: I would like exhibit works of art in the University Galleries. How do I pursue this?
A: Like most non-profit museums/galleries, The University Galleries’ program operates with significant limitations to its resources and space. For these reasons, we focus first on projects that 1) relate directly to the educational mission of the University, 2) enable us to pursue creative links to our faculty and the curriculum they teach, and 3) involve students in innovative ways with the conception, development, and presentation of works of art. Ideally, our exhibition schedule is fully established 2-3 years in advance and programs must privilege projects that advance the strategic goals of the University, first and foremost. If you believe you have work that meets all of these criteria, you may submit an exhibition proposal that will be reviewed by the professional staff and our advisory committees. Proposals will be reviewed only as staff time allows. If you would like your materials returned to you, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. USD is not responsible for any unsolicited materials it receives.
Q: Who decides what gets shown or is collected by the University Galleries?
A: The University Galleries’ staff is guided by a Strategic Plan. Additionally, a volunteer Curatorial Advisory Committee serves to review all major decisions about program direction and purchases of works of art beyond discretionary levels.
Q: Are there opportunities to become involved at the University Galleries?
A: At this point, internships for USD undergraduates and graduate students are the primary ways for non-professionals to become involved in the gallery programs. If you have special skills or interests to bring to the programs, please contact the Director of University Galleries to schedule an appointment to discuss additional volunteer opportunities. Paid opportunities are extremely limited and all jobs are listed on the USD Jobs website.
Q: Can I get information on past exhibitions or about works in the permanent collection?
A: Yes, some information is already listed on this site. Staff/interns are prepared to answer questions about past exhibitions or virtually any work in the permanent collection, as requested. Inquiries can be sent via the contact information listed on this site. Publications associated with our past exhibitions are also available. A small charge to cover expenses associated with shipping these publications may be assessed.
