EXHIBITION CONCEPT
Second Street presents an annual exhibition season of 12-14 shows in eight slots, either as whole space exhibitions in two galleries or two simultaneous shows, on view for one- to two-month periods. Each opening is a part of the citywide "First Fridays" celebration in which many local art organizations participate each month. The schedule features works in all media by artists from Virginia, the region, and across the country. Second Street has from the outset been a gathering place for artists, exhibiting work that inspires them, offering them opportunities through exhibitions that encourage experimentation free from market constraints, and connecting them with other artists and audiences. Additionally, SSG presents a full calendar of related educational activities, lectures, workshops, tours, and publications.

ARTIST REVIEW PANEL (ARP)
In September 1977, the selection process for curating SSG's exhibition season was formalized through the meeting of a monthly panel. This process eventually led to what is today's Artist Review Panel, the gallery's annual national call for entries. An average of 150 artists respond with proposals, which are then considered by the internal eight-member Panel composed of artists, art consultants, curators, collectors, and professionals in the academic field. The director also regularly visits national art fairs, artist studios, and galleries to see current art. From these sources the director builds a schedule based on curatorial judgment, ARP results, budgetary considerations, and programming/community needs. The goal is to present a balanced and diverse cross-section of contemporary art while maintaining the highest standards of artistic excellence. The resulting recommendations, considered ultimately by the director, result in an average of 25% of SSG's exhibiting artists.