In 1961, the New York art scene welcomed a new player that would soon become a significant force in contemporary figurative art. Bella Fishko founded Forum Gallery with a vision to showcase and promote American figurative artists. From its inception, the gallery has been dedicated to presenting both established and emerging talents, creating a space where traditional artistic values meet contemporary expression.
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ContactA Focus on Figurative Art
Forum Gallery has maintained an unwavering commitment to figurative art throughout its history. This focus has allowed the gallery to build a reputation for presenting carefully curated exhibitions that celebrate the human form and experience. The gallery’s roster includes a diverse array of artists who explore figurative themes through various mediums and styles.
Notable Artists and Exhibitions
Over the years, Forum Gallery has represented an impressive list of artists. Among the first were Raphael Soyer, Chaim Gross, David Levine, and Gregory Gillespie. As the gallery’s reputation grew, so did its international reach. In the 1980s, Forum Gallery expanded its program to include American artists William Beckman and Robert Cottingham, as well as the renowned Norwegian painter Odd Nerdrum.
Today, Forum Gallery represents more than thirty American and European artists and estates. This includes Chilean masters Claudio Bravo and Guillermo Muñoz Vera, Spanish realist Cesar Galicia, and Austrian artist Xenia Hausner. American artists such as Steven Assael, Linden Frederick, Rance Jones, Alan Magee, Alyssa Monks, Brian Rutenberg, and Tula Telfair are also part of the gallery’s impressive roster.
A Legacy of Thematic Exhibitions
While maintaining a strong focus on contemporary figurative art, Forum Gallery has also curated thematic exhibitions of historical importance. These shows have helped contextualize current artistic trends within the broader narrative of art history, particularly emphasizing humanist themes. This approach has allowed the gallery to bridge past and present, creating a rich dialogue between different artistic periods and styles.
Industry Recognition and Influence
As a founding member of the Art Dealers Association of America, Forum Gallery has played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of art dealing in the United States. This membership underscores the gallery’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of connoisseurship and ethical practice in the art market.
Location and Accessibility
Forum Gallery is strategically located at 475 Park Avenue at 57th Street in New York City. This prime location in Manhattan’s bustling art district makes it easily accessible to art enthusiasts, collectors, and casual visitors alike. The gallery welcomes visitors six days a week, operating from Monday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM.
Adapting to Changing Times
In response to recent global health concerns, Forum Gallery has implemented safety measures to ensure a comfortable visiting experience. The gallery provides hand sanitizer and face coverings upon request, demonstrating its commitment to the well-being of its visitors while continuing to provide access to remarkable art.
Engagement with the Art Community
Beyond its exhibition program, Forum Gallery actively engages with the broader art community. The gallery’s staff, including Executive Director Nicola Lorenz and Associate Director Marjorie Van Cura, are readily available to assist with inquiries about artworks, artists, and exhibitions. This approachable attitude has helped Forum Gallery build strong relationships within the art world and with its clientele.
Looking to the Future
As Forum Gallery moves forward, it continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. The gallery regularly participates in major art fairs, bringing its unique vision to a wider audience. With each new exhibition and artist representation, Forum Gallery reaffirms its position as a beacon of figurative art in the contemporary art world.
Forum Gallery stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of figurative art in the face of changing artistic trends. With its rich history, diverse roster of artists, and commitment to both tradition and innovation, the gallery continues to be a vital institution in New York’s vibrant art scene, bridging the gap between the past and present of figurative art.
Citations: [1] https://www.forumgallery.com/about [2] https://www.artsy.net/partner/forum-gallery/artists [3] https://research.frick.org/directory/detail/230 [4] https://www.artsy.net/partner/forum-gallery [5] https://artinamericaguide.com/listings/forum-gallery/ [6] https://www.forumgallery.com/exhibitions/past