The word "gallery" is spelled /ˈɡæləri/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This consists of six symbols representing each sound in the word. The first sound is /ɡ/, which is the voiced velar stop. This is followed by /æ/, the vowel sound in "cat", then /l/, the voiced alveolar lateral approximant. Next is /ə/, the schwa sound found in unstressed syllables, followed by /r/, the voiced alveolar approximant, and finally /i/, the vowel sound in "bee". So, the combination of these six sounds makes up the word "gallery".
A gallery refers to a space or establishment specifically designed to exhibit and showcase various forms of artwork or items of cultural and historical significance. It serves as a platform for artists, artisans, collectors, and curators to display their creations, enabling public access and appreciation. Galleries often house paintings, sculptures, photographs, installations, and other artistic expressions, offering visitors a visual and sensory experience.
Typically, galleries are organized in a way that encourages visitors to navigate through specific areas or rooms, each dedicated to different artists or thematic exhibitions. They employ various forms of lighting, signage, and spatial arrangements to enhance the aesthetic appeal and create a conducive environment for immersive artistic encounters. Galleries may vary in size, from small independent spaces to vast museum complexes with multiple wings, grand halls, and permanent collections.
Often, galleries play a vital role in the promotion, support, and commercialization of art, acting as intermediaries between artists and potential buyers. Alongside exhibitions, galleries frequently organize openings, receptions, and events that engage artists, art enthusiasts, collectors, and the community at large. This fosters cultural dialogue, facilitates networking, and can lead to collaborations or art sales.
Beyond visual arts, the term "gallery" can also refer to a series or collection of images, photographs, or other visual representations displayed in sequence. This can include online platforms or applications that showcase digital galleries, allowing users to view and explore such compilations virtually.
A long apartment serving as a communication to others; any long passage; the upper seats in a theatre: the raised floor round a church or public building; a collection of paintings, &c., and the place where they are arranged for inspection; in mining, a working drift or level from which the mineral has been excavated; in mil., a passage formed under ground.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "gallery" originated from the Old French word "galerie", which was derived from the Medieval Latin "galilaea" or "galilaea porticus". This Latin term referred to a covered passageway or porch, usually situated at the side of a building. The Latin phrase itself was believed to be a corruption of the Greek word "stoa Galileia", meaning Galilean porch or Galilean walkway. It was named after the biblical region of Galilee.
Over time, the meaning of "gallery" expanded to include not only the covered walkway but also the upper level or balcony situated above the main floor, typically found in theaters, churches, or large halls. Eventually, the term evolved to include any long, narrow room or passageway, often adorned with artwork or collections of various kinds, such as the art galleries we have today.