Exhibit Proposals | University of Portland

Exhibit Information and Criteria

Exhibits at Clark Library

The Clark Library's exhibits showcase the creativity and scholarship of University of Portland students, faculty, and staff while highlighting the University's history, culture, and diverse perspectives. The Library is committed to the principles of academic freedom and to presenting a variety of viewpoints.

The information below applies only to exhibits in the Dr. James T. Covert Gallery. Requests to display materials elsewhere in the Library are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Propose an Exhibit

To be considered for exhibition, please complete the Exhibit Proposal Form. Proposals are reviewed as they are received, and the Library reserves the right to decline any proposal. Please submit proposals at least one month in advance. If the proposal form is unavailable, we are not currently accepting submissions.

Final approval for all exhibits rests with the Dean of the Library.

Exhibit Space

Display Cases

  • Two small cases: 20" × 20" × 20"H
  • One small case: 19.25" × 19.25" × 23.75"H
  • Two large cases: 42"L × 20"D × 20"H

Gallery Walls

  • Left wall: 20' 8.5" W × 7' 6" H
  • Left projecting wall: 5' 8.5" W × 7' 3" H (height to picture rail)
  • Right wall: 11' 5.5" W × 7' H
  • Right projecting wall: 5' 8.5" W × 7' H (height to picture rail)

The Library has 11 frames sized 11" x 14" (16" x 20" unmatted) that we can provide.

Selection Criteria

Exhibits are evaluated based on:

  • Connection to the University's mission, curriculum, or community
  • Relevance to current campus or events
  • Educational, scholarly, cultural, or historical value
  • Quality and visual presentation
  • Availability within the exhibit schedule

Responsibilities of Exhibit Curators

If your proposal is accepted, you will be asked to:

  • Complete and sign the Exhibit Policy and Agreement Form and email it to the Library Dean.
  • Provide frames for hanging materials that do not fit the Library's frames.
  • Supply accurate captions, acknowledgements, and citations for all exhibited materials.
  • Ensure exhibit materials can be safely displayed without damaging cases, walls, collections, or facilities. Additionally, exhibits may not compromise our users’ access to collections or services or otherwise disrupt or harm the facility, collections, or visitors.
  • Obtain all necessary permissions and rights for displayed content.
  • Receive Library approval before displaying any fragile, rare, or otherwise vulnerable materials.