In the heart of Tribeca, a neighborhood known for its artistic flair and rich cultural heritage, lies a hidden gem – the 81 Leonard Gallery. This contemporary art space, nestled on Leonard Street between Church and Broadway, has been a well-kept secret for over two decades, until its recent transformation into a stunning exhibition venue. [1]
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ContactThe Story Behind the Gallery
The story of 81 Leonard Gallery is a tale of passion, perseverance, and a deep love for art. For 23 years, artist Nancy Pantirer had been creating her masterpieces within the confines of this space, her curtains drawn, shielding her work from the outside world. It was her partner, Elaine Mitchell, who saw the potential in this hidden gem and convinced Nancy to open a gallery, pulling back the curtains and inviting the world in. [1]
After a year of meticulous renovations, the once-private studio was transformed into a striking, classic Tribeca gallery space, with its white walls and minimalist aesthetic providing the perfect backdrop for showcasing exceptional artworks. [1]
A Collaborative Effort
The journey of establishing 81 Leonard Gallery has been a collaborative effort between Nancy and Elaine, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Nancy, a seasoned fine and commercial artist known for her massive abstract canvases, has a robust career spanning decades. Elaine, on the other hand, transitioned from the fashion industry to the art world, teaching herself the intricate skills of framing and canvas stretching. [1]
Together, they have embarked on a new adventure, navigating the challenges and excitement of running a gallery. As Nancy puts it, “It’s been wonderful, scary, frightening, exciting.” [1] Their shared passion for art and their desire to create a platform for showcasing works that matter have been the driving forces behind this endeavor.
A Diverse Lineup of Exhibitions
Since its inception, 81 Leonard Gallery has curated a diverse range of exhibitions, showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists from various backgrounds and artistic disciplines. Their inaugural show featured the bordertown pop-infused works of Mexican American artist Cande Aguilar, whose vibrant pieces reflect the duality of his heritage. [1]
The gallery’s lineup extends well into 2020, with plans to host four shows annually, allowing ample time for each exhibition to breathe and captivate visitors. One of their upcoming collaborations is with Doctors Without Borders, further solidifying their commitment to using art as a platform for social awareness and change. [1]
A Sanctuary for Artists
In a city where artists often struggle to find affordable spaces and opportunities to showcase their work, 81 Leonard Gallery stands as a beacon of hope. Nancy, who has been a part of the Tribeca art scene since the late 1970s, laments the exodus of artists from the neighborhood over the years. Her desire to create a space where artists can gather, connect, and exhibit their work is palpable. “I miss artists! Everyone has left the neighborhood, so I wanted to show work here – work that wasn’t being shown, work that mattered,” she says. [1]
With her extensive network of fellow artists and her keen eye for recognizing exceptional work, Nancy and Elaine are well-positioned to curate exhibitions that not only captivate audiences but also provide a platform for artists whose voices might otherwise go unheard.
A Glimpse into the Future
As 81 Leonard Gallery continues to establish itself as a prominent player in the Tribeca art scene, its future looks promising. The gallery’s commitment to showcasing diverse and thought-provoking works, coupled with its dedication to fostering a supportive community for artists, sets it apart from many other venues.
One of the upcoming exhibitions, “we’re just so glad you’re home” by multidisciplinary artist Ophelia Arc, promises to be a captivating exploration of themes surrounding identity, belonging, and the human experience. [7] With a lineup of compelling shows on the horizon, art enthusiasts and collectors alike have much to look forward to at 81 Leonard Gallery.
In the words of Nancy Pantirer, “We are limited to nothing.” [1] This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of 81 Leonard Gallery – a space where creativity knows no bounds, where artists can push the boundaries of their craft, and where audiences can embark on a journey of discovery and appreciation for the arts.
As you step through the doors of this hidden gem, you’ll be greeted by a world of artistic expression, where the curtains have been drawn back, and the spotlight shines brightly on the works that truly matter. [1][6][8][9][10][11][12]
Citations: [1] https://tribecacitizen.com/2019/09/26/new-kid-on-the-block-81-leonard-gallery/ [2] https://81leonardgallery.com [3] https://81leonardgallery.com [4] https://www.instagram.com/81leonardgallery/ [5] https://artspiel.org/controlled-entropy-taher-jaoui-at-81-leonard-gallery/ [6] https://tribecacitizen.com/2019/09/26/new-kid-on-the-block-81-leonard-gallery/ [7] https://www.artrabbit.com/events/ophelia-arc-were-just-so-glad-youre-home-81-leonard-gallery [8] https://artguide.artforum.com/artguide/81-leonard-gallery-23032 [9] https://www.facebook.com/81LeonardGallery/ [10] https://www.uncommonbeautygallery.com/blog/2020/2/11/taher-jaouis-solo-show-opens-with-a-full-house-at-81-leonard-gallery [11] https://www.meer.com/81leonard/en [12] https://www.artland.com/galleries/81-leonard-gallery