Founded in 1921 by Nicholas Acquavella, Acquavella Galleries has stood as a pillar of the New York art world for over a century. What began as a specialist in Italian Renaissance and Baroque paintings has evolved into one of the most prestigious galleries in the world, known for its expertise in 19th, 20th, and 21st-century art.
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ContactFamily Tradition
Now in its third generation of family ownership, Acquavella Galleries continues to thrive under the leadership of Bill Acquavella and his children Eleanor, Nick, and Alexander. This family-run approach has allowed the gallery to maintain its reputation for expertise and integrity over the decades, while continuously adapting to the changing landscape of the art world.
A Home for Masterpieces
Since 1967, Acquavella Galleries has been housed in a stunning French neo-classical townhouse at 18 East 79th Street in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. This elegant setting provides the perfect backdrop for the masterpieces on display, creating an intimate and luxurious viewing experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Artistic Range
While initially focused on Old Masters, Acquavella expanded its scope under Bill Acquavella’s direction to include Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Cubist, and Surrealist works. Today, the gallery showcases an impressive range of artists, from Cézanne and Monet to contemporary figures like Miquel Barceló and Tom Sachs. Visitors can expect to see works by iconic artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Willem de Kooning, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, among many others.
Notable Exhibitions
Acquavella Galleries is renowned for its carefully curated exhibitions, which often rival museum shows in their scope and scholarship. These have included retrospectives of major artists, thematic exhibitions, and presentations of important private collections. The gallery’s publications accompanying these exhibitions are highly regarded in the art world, contributing to art historical research and appreciation.
Art Market Influence
In 1990, Acquavella partnered with Sotheby’s to purchase the entire inventory of the Pierre Matisse Gallery, a landmark deal that included over 2,300 works by major 20th-century artists. This acquisition cemented Acquavella’s position as a major player in the modern and contemporary art market, demonstrating the gallery’s ability to navigate complex transactions and shape the art world landscape.
Community Engagement
Beyond its role as a commercial gallery, Acquavella has contributed significantly to art scholarship and public appreciation of art. The gallery regularly hosts artist talks, lectures, and other events that engage the broader art community, fostering dialogue and deepening understanding of artistic movements and individual artists’ work.
Looking to the Future
As Acquavella Galleries enters its second century, it continues to balance its rich history with a forward-looking approach. By representing contemporary artists alongside 20th-century masters, the gallery ensures its ongoing relevance in the ever-evolving art world. Recent renovations to the gallery space, overseen by renowned architect Annabelle Selldorf, demonstrate Acquavella’s commitment to providing the best possible environment for viewing and appreciating art.
Visitor Experience
Open Monday through Friday, Acquavella Galleries welcomes art enthusiasts to explore its current exhibitions. Visitors consistently praise the gallery’s knowledgeable staff, the museum-quality presentations, and the opportunity to view masterpieces in an intimate setting. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious art lover, a visit to Acquavella Galleries promises an enriching experience with some of the world’s finest artworks.
Acquavella Galleries stands as a testament to the enduring power of connoisseurship, family tradition, and a deep love for art. Its century-long legacy continues to shape the art world, making it an essential destination for anyone passionate about the history and future of visual arts.
Citations: [1] https://www.acquavellagalleries.com [2] https://research.frick.org/directory/detail/1954 [3] https://www.yelp.com/biz/acquavella-galleries-new-york [4] https://www.acquavellagalleries.com/acquavella-at-100 [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acquavella_Galleries [6] https://www.artnet.com/galleries/acquavella-galleries/ [7] https://www.widewalls.ch/venue/aquavella-gallery [8] https://www.acquavellagalleries.com/exhibitions