The Borland Project Space showcases the research happening in the College of Arts and Architecture. We look to expand the definition of research to encompass the full range of diverse creative practices in which we engage to create new knowledge in our disciplines. Our goal is to move beyond traditional notions of exhibition and scholarly programming and reveal the processes of arts research.
We strive to deepen our understanding of artistic processes by emphasizing the process and exploration that artists undergo in their research endeavors. Thus, we prioritize ongoing projects and works in progress over finished artworks and final research products.
By placing ongoing research projects in a gallery-like setting, the Borland Project Space brings visibility to the research process in all its forms and stages.
Exhibitions may include documentation of the creative process, multimedia presentations, cross-disciplinary collaborations, process demonstrations, displaying multiple iterations of a work, presenting a timeline of key milestones in the research process, educational components, discussion panels, Q&A sessions, etc.
In addition, we seek to engage the larger community through events held in conjunction with each featured arts research project. We also welcome classroom research activities, gatherings, community-building events, and wellness programs.
Goals
Show creative work as research: Demonstrate that creative work is research by focusing on projects in progress and documenting how artists work and think through problems.
Make research visible: Help people understand what arts research looks like by showing the steps and changes that happen during creative projects.
Build community: Bring together artists from different disciplines and the broader community through events, collaborations, and opportunities to share ideas.
Offer diverse programming: Present work in different ways through showcases and documentation, hosting talks, panels, and community gatherings.
Support the college: Highlight the important research happening in Arts and Architecture by giving faculty and students a place to share their work.
Questions, inquiries, reservations?
Contact Zsuzsanna Nagy at zzn24@psu.edu.
Fall 2025 Schedule
September 15–26
Time-Motion Studies: A Contemplative Approach to Human-Computer Interaction
A mixed media exhibit by Andrew Hieronymi and Tom Lauerman
September 29–October 5
Penn State Art Education Alumni Pop-Up Art Exhibit
Karen Keifer-Boyd and Leslie C. Sotomayor
October 20–31
Sister Garden Think Tent
Ann Holt
November 3–17
Materials and Techniques Showcase for Art H 111
Heather McCune Bruhn
November 10–21
Access(ing) Intimacy: An Archive of Chronic Illness
Brandi Lewis
December 8–19
Finals Week Festivus Study Break and Relax Room
Organized by Robin Bierly