ABOUT
Video courtesy of Steer Forward.
At Public Shop & Gallery, we offer artists and creative people a space and platform to exhibit, teach, and sell using their skills, providing them with more autonomy over their labor and helping further their practice.
We strive to be accessible by being affordable, intentional with our location, and accommodating in our space. We’re representative of the artists we prioritize; Indigenous, Black, Brown, and People of Color. This helps provide a sense of belonging within the creative community in Providence, which has a history of being private and exclusionary.
OUR FOUNDERS
​Casandra (Cas) Inez & Spocka Summa are the visionary founders and operators of Public Shop & Gallery, located in the Olneyville neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island.
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Cas and Spocka met in high school and grew up as creatives in Providence, immersing themselves in art shows, rap battles, performances, and stage plays. Today, Cas channels her creativity into poetry and mixed media visual art, while Spocka thrives as a musician, performer, and visual artist. They have two children and live in Providence.
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Public is an African & Latina, family-owned and home grown creative business. Since opening in 2019, the shop and gallery has featured over 175 artists and 130 makers plus 75 community partners, 18 authors, and 15 muralists (as of June 2024). With the rising support of the community, Public has navigated the challenges of Covid-19 and continues to grow.
Our Values
RESPONSIBILITY
We respect our connection to the earth and understand our relationship to land and space to be both a privilege and responsibility. Our work strives to strengthen the roots and nourish the soul.
REPRESENTATION
We prioritize collaborating with members of our community. Serving as a safe and welcoming space to reflect on issues, cultures, and practices while fostering connection and a sense of belonging.
FLEXIBILITY
Our space can be a platform, a gathering place, an incubator, learning center, and connector. It is meant to stay flexible in order to continue to fit the needs of the surrounding community.
What We Offer
​Art Exhibitions
Showcasing artists of all skill levels and mediums.
Community Programming
Artist-led workshops and community-building gatherings for all ages.
Special Events
Hosting monthly and annual events to bring people together.
Affordable Art Studios
Providing private and communal spaces for artists to create.
Shop
Featuring unique products from local designers, artisans, and makers.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When is your next exhibit?We change out our exhibits every 1-3 months. Take a look at our previous, current, and upcoming exhibits here.
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How can I exhibit my work in your gallery?We curate exhibits and host open calls regularly. We also have space for others to come in and host their own work or show. Submit here
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When are you open?Please see our calendar for our most current business hours. Times change based on availability and the seasons.
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Where are you located?50 Agnes Street, Providence, RI 02909. We’re located on the first floor and we’re accessible by wheelchairs and strollers.
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What should I know about parking?Parking is free on Agnes Streets plus in the surrounding Olneyville area.
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What other programming do you do?At Public Shop & Gallery, we offer a range of programming such as: Artist-led Workshops: A variety of hands-on sessions led by local artists, covering different mediums and techniques. Special Events: Gatherings that bring people together, such as open mic nights, cultural celebrations, pop- ups, and comedy shows. Educational Programs: Informative sessions on topics like artist development and creative business practices. Community Builds: Intentional gatherings for all ages to build and strengthen community in a creative way. Performance Arts: Live music, theater, dance performances, and more to showcase emerging talent.
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How can I support?Supporting Public Shop & Gallery is easy and can be done in various ways: Become a Member. Help sustain this space by becoming a member for $10-45 a month. Memberships and perks for individuals, artists, and families are available. Here Attend our Events. Showing up matters! Join us for exhibitions, events, and programs. Here Make a Purchase. Buy artwork and products from featured artists and makers. Each purchase directly supports the artists and the space. Here Let’s Collaborate. Partner with us as an artist, maker, resident, or community organization to create new and exciting programs. Rent our Space. Think of Public for your next event, gathering, meeting, or special occasion. We want to maximize the utilization of this special space. Here Spread the Word: Share Public news with your friends, family, and social networks. Word of mouth spreads fast and wide! Join our Newsletter. Stay tuned in with everything happening! Here Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to help with events, workshops, and other activities. Donate: Contribute to our mission of supporting creatives and bringing art to the community. Your donations help us provide more opportunities and resources. Here For more details on how to get involved, please contact us.