About Us

Take the Mantel is an intimate curatorial project and online platform for art and ideas, founded by married artists Brian Barr and Lauren Rice in suburban Richmond, Virginia. Focused on bridging the gap between an artist’s work, creative inspiration, and lived experience, our exhibitions invite artists to activate our mantel, fireplace hearth, and adjacent wall as spaces for both presentation and reflection. Each show highlights not just the finished work but also the ideas that fuel artistic practice, offering insight into the creative process. At its core, Take the Mantel is about championing great work and celebrating wonderful people.