Carrie Secrist Gallery

The evolution of the Carrie Secrist Gallery into SECRIST | BEACH marks a significant moment in the Chicago art scene, reflecting a commitment to community engagement and innovative programming. Established in 1992, the gallery has undergone various transformations, culminating in its recent relocation to a new, expansive space.

A Legacy of Innovation

Originally founded as Gallery A, the gallery was rebranded as Carrie Secrist Gallery in 1996, with a mission to create an enlightened salon atmosphere that encouraged conversation and discovery among artists and audiences alike. The gallery initially focused on emerging artists and thematic exhibitions, providing a platform for local talent and fostering a sense of community within the art world. In 2003, the gallery moved to a larger space in the West Loop, enabling it to exhibit larger-scale works and host more comprehensive exhibitions.

The Impact of COVID-19

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 prompted Carrie Secrist to reevaluate the gallery’s direction. During this time, she reflected on the importance of in-person interactions and the role of community in the arts. This introspection led to the decision to reinvent the gallery, prioritizing authentic creativity and engagement over digital communication. Secrist’s vision was clear: to create a space that not only showcased art but also fostered dialogue and collaboration among artists and audiences.

SECRIST | BEACH: A New Chapter

In April 2024, the gallery reopened as SECRIST | BEACH, combining Carrie Secrist’s name with that of her partner, Bill Beach. The new venue spans 10,000 square feet and features double bow-trussed ceilings flooded with natural light, designed to enhance the viewing experience.

Space and Programming

The layout of SECRIST | BEACH is strategically divided to serve dual purposes. One half is dedicated to solo exhibitions that challenge and solidify the practices of represented artists, while the other half hosts curated group exhibitions that complement these solo shows. A central salon space will facilitate artistic collaborations and host a variety of intellectually stimulating programs, including lectures, performances, and community events. This innovative approach aims to engage gallery-goers in real-time dialogue, encouraging deeper connections with the art and the artists.

Inaugural Exhibitions

The grand reopening included two significant exhibitions:

• HILMA’S GHOST | SPECTRAL VISIONS: A Feminist Collective Signals Magickal Futures: This exhibition features retrospective and new works by the collective Hilma’s Ghost, comprising artists Sharmistha Ray and Dannielle Tegeder. It explores themes of feminism and the mystical, inviting viewers to engage with the works on multiple levels.

• COSMIC GEOMETRIES: The Prairie’s Edge: Curated by Hilma’s Ghost, this exhibition showcases a diverse group of artists, including Candida Alvarez, Elijah Burgher, and Michelle Grabner, among others. It aims to explore the intersection of contemporary art and the natural world, emphasizing the unique perspectives of each artist.

Looking Ahead

As SECRIST | BEACH embarks on this new journey, it stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the art community in Chicago. The gallery’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, engaging environment for artists and audiences alike promises to enrich the cultural landscape of the city. With its innovative programming and dedication to community engagement, SECRIST | BEACH is poised to become a cornerstone of contemporary art in Chicago, inviting all to participate in the ongoing dialogue of creativity and expression.

Citations:
[1] https://www.chicagogallerynews.com/organizations/secrist-beach
[2] https://www.chicagogallerynews.com/news/2024/4/carrie-secrist-gallery-reopens-as-secrist-beach
[3] https://artguide.artforum.com/artguide/secrist-beach-1591
[4] https://emsgroupny.com/secrist-beach-gallery/
[5] https://secristbeach.com