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Introduction
About the Show
History
The MAEP
The Door is Open



The History of the Show

The original Foot in the Door Show was conceived in 1979 by the MAEP's Artist Panel. It was an innovative response, both to those concerned that artists would "let anyone in" to the museum and to those critical that many notable artists had not yet been shown through the MAEP.

The first Foot in the Door Show, in 1980, featured work by 740 artists. It was a grand success, a whirlwind of images and ideas. Regular inquiries were made to the program through the years-"When is the next Foot in the Door?" In 1989, the artist panel decided to stage a second show, ten years after the first. The Other Foot in the Door Show grew to include works by nearly 900 artists.

Today, nearly two decades and 110 exhibitions after the original "Foot," the MAEP is still fundamentally and creatively committed to the democratic process.

The Foot in the Door Show

The Artist Panel is still intrigued with this massive exhibition that forms itself entirely in the absence of subjective curatorial judgment. The Foot in the Door Show is a grand event that continues to delight artists and audiences alike.