Untitled #1 and Untitled #2 (2024)

These are the first works we featured in the Little Window Gallery, “untitled #1 and #2” by Jacqueline Gurgui (@gurguiclay). These pieces were a bit of an experiment—a bit of a risk—for Gurgui: they were a departure from her usual practice of making ceramic vessels.

Jacqueline was instrumental in bringing the gallery into being, and these inaugural pieces were in the gallery in April 2024.

Jacqueline asked neighbors: 

When have you tried a new thing, not knowing how it would turn out? 

Here’s how our neighbors responded: 

“A couple months ago, I moved out on my own, I was very anxious and worried about how it would be. With time, I now know that it was the best decision for me and despite the hardships Im glad I did that for myself.” 

“I wrote a poem recently, and haven't written one in about a decade!” 

“Literally every time I go to a social function by myself. But now I’m good at the Irish exit and not making myself feel bad if I don’t like the vibes of something!” 

“When I left fashion in 1997 and started teaching art later that year because I needed to pay the rent. Who knew that it would become a lifelong career and passion?” 

“After playing guitar in several other bands all my life, this Saturday I'll be recording my very own solo album and ive composed and arranged all the parts.” 

Jacqueline gave away these pieces to Mai Tran, who offered one of the responses above. Mai is a grateful neighbor whose column on catsitting can be found at McSweeney’s!