Temporary Outdoor Gallery (TOGS) Competition

Step 1:
Roll T.O.G. into position.

Step 2:
Use levers on wheel assembly
to lower T.O.G. to the ground
then rotate wheels to the up
position.  

Step 3:
Rotate solar panels to the up
position and extend exterior
walls to the open postion.

Step 4:
Rotate remaining walls into
position.  Then fold floors down
into position.

Step 5:
Attach canvas roof and
install A.D.A. ramp.

This submission creates a temporary outdoor gallery that provides security, to protect the work inside from outdoor elements; sustainability, so that the galleries will be as self sufficient as possible; mobility, ensuring that the galleries can be installed and removed with ease; functionality, providing a functional gallery space that facilitates the viewing of art; and unity, a cohesive and energetic design that enhances the work being displayed. 

The self-contained design of the gallery allows it to be maneuvered into any location, lowered to the ground, and expanded to create a functional exhibit space in five steps.  The roof is canvas, which gives it the ability to be rolled and unrolled as the gallery is assembled or disassembled.  The canvas roof provides another benefit, providing diffused light, which is ideal for viewing works of art. 

The gallery makes use of cross ventilation, a passive cooling strategy.  Wind is drawn in low at louvers located at the back and expelled high through the vent located on the front.  The gallery provides it’s own power through solar panels mounted on top and stores the electricity in a series of batteries located in the back of the gallery.  This electricity can be used to power fans, lights, and media equipment for any exhibit that would require TV and/or video.  Aside from providing electric power the solar panels help block harmful southern sun from the canvas roof.     

The design for the galleries is influenced by construction equipment, a familiar sight in downtown of Austin.  Their vibrant colors draw attention as well as unify the galleries.  The reference to construction equipment also speaks to the dualistic nature of the galleries.  Aside from being a formal and elegant space for the exhibition of fine art, the galleries have a utilitarian requirement that is unlike any permanent gallery.  They must be assembled, disassembled and removed from the site with ease.  The contradictory relationship between the formal and the utilitarian became the primary inspiration for the design of the galleries.