56 Henry

56 Henry has quickly established itself as a significant player in New York City’s vibrant contemporary art scene. Located in the heart of Lower Manhattan’s Two Bridges neighborhood, this gallery has become known for its innovative approach to showcasing both emerging and established artists.

A Gallery with a Vision

Founded by Eleanor Rines, 56 Henry emerged from the ashes of her previous venture, 55 Gansevoort, which was located in New York’s Meatpacking District. When that space was sold in August 2015, Rines made a strategic move to 56 Henry Street, giving birth to the gallery’s current name and identity. The gallery’s street-level location allows for 24/7 visibility of its exhibitions, creating an engaging and accessible art experience for passersby and art enthusiasts alike.

Expansion and Growth

In 2022, 56 Henry expanded its presence by opening a second location at 105 Henry Street. This expansion has allowed the gallery to broaden its exhibition capabilities and further cement its place in the neighborhood’s cultural landscape. The dual locations provide more opportunities for artists to showcase their work and for the gallery to curate diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions.

A Diverse Roster of Artists

56 Henry represents a mix of emerging and established artists working across various mediums. The gallery’s roster includes notable names such as LaKela Brown, Al Freeman, Nikita Gale, Kunle Martins, Richard Tinkler, Cynthia Talmadge, Jo Messer, David Roy, and Clayton Schiff. This diverse group of artists ensures that 56 Henry consistently presents fresh perspectives and innovative artistic practices.

Dynamic Exhibition Program

The gallery maintains an active and engaging exhibition schedule, featuring both solo shows and group exhibitions. Recent exhibitions have included works by artists like Mika Horibuchi, Dan McCleary, and Cynthia Talmadge, demonstrating the gallery’s commitment to presenting a wide range of contemporary artistic practices.

56 Henry also participates in major art fairs such as NADA Miami, The Armory Show, and Art Basel Miami Beach, showcasing its artists on international platforms and further solidifying its reputation in the global art community.

Innovative Curatorial Approaches

One of the gallery’s standout features is its willingness to experiment with curatorial concepts. A prime example is the “Labyrinth of Solitude” exhibition, which creatively juxtaposed contemporary works with digital representations of historical masterpieces from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This innovative approach not only challenges traditional exhibition formats but also creates unique dialogues between different artistic periods and styles.

Community Engagement and Education

Beyond its role as a commercial gallery, 56 Henry serves as an educational platform for art enthusiasts. The gallery’s exhibitions often come with detailed information about the artists and their works, providing context and insight into contemporary art practices. This commitment to education helps to foster a deeper appreciation for contemporary art among visitors.

Looking to the Future

As 56 Henry continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to its mission of presenting cutting-edge contemporary art. With its two locations, participation in major art fairs, and innovative curatorial approaches, the gallery is well-positioned to continue influencing the New York art scene and beyond.

For art enthusiasts, collectors, and curious visitors alike, 56 Henry offers a unique window into the world of contemporary art. Its commitment to showcasing diverse artistic voices, coupled with its accessible locations in Lower Manhattan, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the pulse of New York’s contemporary art scene.

Citations: [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/56_Henry_(art_gallery) [2] https://56henry.nyc/exhibitions/ [3] https://labyrinthofsolitude.com/solitude/introduction [4] https://56henry.nyc [5] https://56henry.nyc/exhibitions/tower-paintings/