Terrain Exhibitions began in 2011 as a public exhibition space in Oak Park, IL at the home of artist Sabina Ott

Terrain Exhibitions was born out of a spirit of profound generosity and community building through art. Over the course of seven years, Sabina Ott hosted the work of over 100 artists on the front lawn and porch of the home she shared with her husband, author John Paulett. Artists were invited to create site-specific projects challenging the space between public and private, decoration and function, figure and ground.

Terrain Exhibitions differed from many other alternative art platforms in that the artworks were accessible 24 hours a day, year round. Neighbors, school children, teachers, parents and passersby were exposed to unexpected contemporary art, offering the experience of discovery and surprise to the community.

In 2013, Sabina staged the inaugural Terrain Biennial on her block in Oak Park, asking her neighbors to host the work of artists in a month-long public art event. With each successive edition, the Biennial has grown in size and reach. The 2021 installment featured over 600 participants at sites all over the U.S. and beyond.

Sabina Ott passed away in the summer of 2018, leaving behind a legacy of countless artist projects and a spirit of radical energy, caring magic, and deep community

Prior to her passing, Sabina established Terrain Exhibitions as a 501c3 Not for Profit organization with the mission to organize and produce the Terrain Biennial, administer the Terrain Residency in Springfield, IL and advocate for making public art visible from private spaces. Terrain Exhibitions continues to operate in the spirit of Sabina’s vision.

 
 
 
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Dear Sabina: A Love Letter to Sabina Ott (1955-2018)

Written by Iris Bernblum, published in Newcity

 

Dearest Sabina,

Sweet, wild friend, saints have never interested me. I love the wild. I’ve always looked toward the creatures on this earth with our pain, sadness, joy, reckless desire…all of it. For me, you were an artist who embodied just that: a deeply human, passionate, quick-witted, fierce woman who always spoke her mind. You were the loudest and most clear through your work, as an artist and educator, full of vulnerability, love and wild impulse. You made magic and through your magic you made community. How were you able to speak to so many? To love so many? If you ever had any doubt as to your influence, I hope you can feel it now. You’ve shown me that putting yourself out there, even when it hurts, is worth it. Giving love and support is just as important as getting it. Even in the face of disappointments, when you felt hurt, looked over, the things we all feel at times, you never lost faith. You always had love. You were a fighter, not just for yourself, but for everyone. You were one of the greatest supporters I have ever known, always giving what you could. When you saw a spark in someone, with your deeply sharp, critical and true eye, you made sure they knew their worth. You made absolutely sure of it. I wish I could tell you all these things now… I will always carry you inside me, as I know so many people will. Sabina Ott, don’t think for a second that your spirit has left us, your mark is permanent and we are forever grateful. Eventually, my sadness will pass with the strength you’ve given me. Thank you my friend, thank you so much.

— Iris

I asked some people close to Sabina for 5 words that they felt described her. We formed small mountains (a nod to her show ‘Who Cares for the Sky’) out of the words for each of them:

Wild
Fiery
Brilliant
Feminist
Wondrous

A
Rose
is a
Rose

Light
Dancing
Consistent
Brave Magic

Sky
Love Now
Macaron Scintilla

Loving
Powerful
Relentless
Zealous Cajoling

Bright
Buoyant Powerful
Animated Engaging

Bold
Formidable
Clever Unique
Loved People

Loving
Powerful
Relentless
Zealous Cajoling

Pushy
Playful Caring
Connecting Provider

Loving
Prolific Friend
Strident Resolute