Lending Library FAQ
Please note that participation in the Lending Library is by invitation only
The Lawndale Lending Library is an arts library that builds relationships between art lovers and contemporary artists in the Houston and Gulf Coast region.
Each year, artists are invited to be part of the Lending Library. Selected works are available to Friends of Lawndale to borrow for select periods throughout the year.
Annually, Lawndale hosts a silent auction in which artwork from the Lending Library can be purchased. Funds raised through the silent auction are either split 50% artist / 50% Lawndale, or 100% Lawndale; all proceeds to Lawndale are directly reinvested back into the Library program.
To learn more about current selections in the library and preview works available, please reach out to Jeremy Johnson at [email protected].
Submissions & Review Process▼
Artists in the Houston and Gulf Coast region are invited to submit work, which Lawndale staff then selects.
Submission Guidelines: We request 2-4 images for consideration. To ensure safe and accessible transportation and storage of the artwork, all pieces should be less than 40” in all dimensions, framed, ready to hang, and durable for travel. Artwork values typically range from $300 – $2,500, and should not exceed $4000.
Library Silent Auction▼
Library artists sign an artist agreement which commits the shared artwork to the Lending Library year (typically February-December) and inclusion in a silent auction at our Sunday Brunch (usually the following January or February).
Each participating artist receives complimentary tickets to the Sunday Brunch fundraiser, our annual daytime event featuring light bites, festive cocktails, music, and Lending Library silent auction. Proceeds from Sunday Brunch directly support Lawndale’s vibrant exhibitions and artists.
Artworks not sold during Sunday Brunch are either returned to the artist or considered for continued inclusion the following Library year.
Frequently Asked Questions▼
What is the goal of the Lending Library?
Through borrowing and the Library silent auction alike, Lawndale supports and shares more about local and regional contemporary artists with our community.
What does Lawndale do with Library artwork?
During the year, Lawndale safely stores and sometimes displays Library artwork; at the end of the Library year, artwork is then featured in the silent auction.
Who borrows Library artwork?
Currently, Friends of Lawndale and the co-working space at ION in Midtown borrow Library artwork.
Friends of Lawndale is a patron group supporting Lawndale’s people and projects; in appreciation, they receive benefits, including the ability to borrow artwork from the Lending Library. Friends of Lawndale can borrow one artwork at a time; typically, in total, they borrow a work once or twice a year.
Additionally, Lawndale has a partnership with the co-working space at ION in Midtown; through this partnership, ION selects Library artwork to be installed in their hallways and common areas. ION also places labels with information about the artwork and artist, including a QR code directing viewers to the artist’s website or social media (most commonly Instagram).
How can I see what artwork is in the Library?
Friends of Lawndale can view available works digitally and in-person at Lawndale. To learn more about Friends of Lawndale, click here.
If a Friend of Lawndale, you can schedule an onsite visit by contacting Jeremy Johnson [email protected] or 713-528-5858.