I put him in a show in 2004 where he made a pipe look like it was leaking and I knew in the back of my head that I wanted him to make a huge fucked-up space installation one day. So that day was Saturday!

How has this process differed from putting together a more conventional, “finished” exhibition?
This was really fun. We got to peek into how artists worked and we got to be really laid back about the deadline. It took the pressure off. That being said, we had to be extra careful what works we picked and how they were installed. If we hung things wrong or got a piece that was too unfinished we could have easily ruined the magic of the show.

Which piece in particular means the most to you?
Rosson Crow’s piece is extra-special because it’s a painting of the club THE HOLE — part of the namesake of the gallery and a club I remember fondly where everyone used to hang out. Hers is the signature piece for me.

Why do you think there’s been so much buzz around the new gallery and opening?
Everyone in the community really wants something great to come out of Deitch closing. Everyone is rooting for us. Everyone wants to have a great community center and a positive gallery to carry on the Deitch energy. And so do we!