The Neubauer Collegium cultivates communities of inquiry at the University of Chicago, and fosters interdisciplinary collaborative research that integrates visual arts into inquiry. It achieves this through faculty-led projects, a Visiting Fellows program, and engaging global leaders in arts, policy, and research. The Collegium’s Gallery serves as a unique laboratory, bridging research and creative insights, distinguishing it from other centers and emphasizing sustainability.

FCI Catalyst funding will support implementation of a feasibility study of the Collegium’s Gallery to identify capital projects that will improve the energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint.  This project will explore the feasibility of a range of proposed upgrades, including LED track lighting with motion sensors, solar panels on the roof, an independent HVAC system for humidity and temperature control, and sealing the envelope of the room with an upgrade to the gallery door. These improvements will allow the Collegium curator to develop exhibitions and programs that are not limited by the Gallery's currently unstable physical conditions. This will improve the quality of exhibition programming, measured by deeper engagement with diverse public audiences. It will also open up new possibilities to present fragile materials including historic objects on loan from institutions that require stable conditions.