In preparation for their Fall 2026 exhibition, [I Don’t Want To Just] Paint The People, artist Andrew Morrow, and Galerie UQO are looking for sitters. For the month of August, we’re exploring what it means to bring the artist/sitter dynamic into the “White Cube” of the gallery space. Sittings are relaxed, sometimes social, and always, art centered. You can show up alone, with friends, dress up, hang out, sleep, do work, or whatever suits you best (no screens please). Food, drink, and small thank you gifts will be provided.
The general sittings run from August 9th to August 25th on Tuesday, Thursdays, and Sundays. August 26th is the last day of the artist’s residency and will be an open session where strangers and friends (repeat sitters welcome!) can come and sit together in the gallery. Drop by anytime between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. for a casual and celebratory end of summer group sitting.
Q&A
- What happens during a sitting?
Sittings are relaxed, collaborative spaces, where sitters are encouraged to consider and respond to a specific prompt, in this case, “the White Cube”. Starting with this, sitters can use the time and space how they’d like while Morrow, draws, paints, and sometimes, takes photographs or video (those last two with consent only).
- I’m not sure how to respond to the prompt “White Cube”. Do I have to respond to the prompt?
It is entirely up to you to respond to the thematic prompt or not. The “White Cube” is a term first coined in the 1970s to describe the minimalist space of the modern art gallery. Here, Morrow is exploring what it means to host a sitting, which typically takes place in an informal setting such as the artist’s studio or the sitter’s home, within the context of an institutional gallery.
- What should I do during the sitting?
You can do (almost) anything you’d like. In the past, sitters worked, slept, spent time with friends, made art, or have done nothing at all. It’s up to you. And if nothing comes to you before the sitting, just show up. You and the artist will figure it out together.
- I’m not sure what the artist needs, so I’m not sure what to do!
Don’t worry about it. The artist will figure out what he needs, it’s more important that you consider what you’d like to get from the experience.
- What should I wear to the sitting?
Anything you want!
- How long do sittings last?
There is no prescribed length for a sitting. They generally end naturally and can be as long or as short as you’d like. Typically, though, they range from 1 to 3 hours.
- Will I be expected to sit still during the sitting?
Only if you want to.
- Should I come alone?
No! You can bring anyone with you, even your pets, as long as it’s pre-arranged with the Galerie UQO staff. If you come accompanied by a pet, a member of Galerie UQO staff will be waiting for you outside the building to show you the way. In accordance with university guidelines, inside traffic with pets is to be kept to a minimum.
- Are sitters compensated?
Galerie UQO and the artist are incredibly grateful for your participation. In addition to our thanks, we will provide light snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as small mementos that will available sometime after the sitting.
- Where are the sittings?
Sittings will be at Galerie UQO. The gallery is located at 101, rue Saint-Jean-Bosco, Gatineau, Québec, J8Y 3G5. Follow the signs inside the building to make your way to the gallery. If you can’t find us, feel free to call 819-595-3900 #2677 or #2618.
You can park on the surrounding streets, for free but for a limited time, or in the University’s parking lot, which is paying.
- What if I still have questions after reading this?
Please feel free to contact Jessica Minier, coordinator of Galerie UQO at jessica.minier@uqo.ca and they’ll be happy to guide you through the process.
