A.I.R. Gallery stands as a groundbreaking institution in the landscape of American art. Founded in 1972, it holds the distinction of being the first all-female artists cooperative gallery in the United States, paving the way for greater representation and recognition of women in the art world.
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ContactThe Founding Vision
In 1972, a group of 20 visionary women artists came together to establish A.I.R. Gallery. Among the founding members were Susan Williams, Barbara Zucker, Dotty Attie, Maude Boltz, Mary Grigoriadis, and Nancy Spero. This collective effort was a direct response to the male-dominated art scene of the time, where an astonishing 96% of leading New York City art galleries exclusively showcased male artists’ work.
A Revolutionary Structure
A.I.R. Gallery was conceived as more than just an exhibition space; it was designed to be a radical, progressive, and subversive institution. The gallery operates on feminist principles of economic cooperation and decision-making by consensus. This unique structure means that member artists have a voice in all decisions, participate in monthly meetings, and shape the overall direction of the gallery.
The Gallery Space
The first A.I.R. Gallery opened its doors on September 16, 1972, in a 70-foot-long space at 97 Wooster Street in SoHo. True to their DIY spirit, the founding members renovated the space themselves, using their carpentry and electrical wiring skills to prepare the gallery for its inaugural exhibition.
Programs and Initiatives
From its inception, A.I.R. Gallery has been committed to fostering a supportive environment for women artists. The gallery established an internship program for students in art-related majors and embraced community-oriented initiatives, hosting performances, discussions, and programs exploring art and feminism.
Exhibitions and Artistic Freedom
One of A.I.R.’s most distinctive features is the autonomy it grants its artists. Each member has the opportunity to curate her own show, allowing for experimentation and risk-taking that might not be possible in more traditional commercial settings. This approach has led to a diverse range of exhibitions over the years, showcasing everything from painting and sculpture to performance art and digital media.
Global Reach and Influence
While rooted in New York, A.I.R. Gallery has extended its influence globally. The gallery has organized international shows and collaborations, including partnerships with artists from countries like Japan and Israel, furthering its mission of promoting women’s voices in art on a global scale.
Evolution and Growth
Over the decades, A.I.R. Gallery has evolved to meet the changing needs of artists and the art world. It has expanded its programs to include a Fellowship Program for emerging and underrepresented women and non-binary artists, providing career development and lifelong support.
Current Mission and Inclusivity
Today, A.I.R. Gallery continues its commitment to supporting women and non-binary artists. Its mission statement emphasizes providing a space for artists across a spectrum of intersectional identities and cultural perspectives, fostering an open exchange of ideas and risk-taking.
Legacy and Impact
The impact of A.I.R. Gallery on the art world cannot be overstated. It has played a crucial role in increasing the visibility and viability of women artists’ endeavors. The gallery’s archive, acquired by New York University’s Fales Library in 2006, stands as a testament to its historical significance and ongoing influence.
Conclusion
A.I.R. Gallery remains a vital institution in the contemporary art world, bridging art and activism while continuing to advocate for diverse voices in the arts. As it approaches its sixth decade, A.I.R. Gallery stands as a living legacy of feminist art practice and a beacon for future generations of artists seeking representation and community in an ever-evolving art landscape.
Citations:
[1] https://www.airgallery.org/about-1
[2] https://www.thefeministinstitute.org/digital-exhibitions/13-a-i-r-gallery-chapter-1
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A.I.R._Gallery
[4] https://artsandculture.google.com/story/a-i-r-gallery-chapter-2-the-feminist-institute/9QVhQ99l84iSFA?hl=en
[5] https://somethingcurated.com/2023/07/11/what-a-i-r-gallery-taught-us/
[6] https://www.airgallery.org/history
[7] https://www.airgallery.org
[8] https://www.airgallery.space/airopen2024
[9] https://artsandculture.google.com/story/a-i-r-gallery-chapter-1-the-feminist-institute/zwWRX0hZNpblLQ?hl=en