Detour Gallery

Nestled in the heart of Red Bank, New Jersey, Detour Gallery has been captivating art enthusiasts for nearly a decade. This 10,000 square foot converted warehouse is more than just an art gallery; it’s a sanctuary for creativity, a hub for emerging and established artists, and a testament to the transformative power of art.

Founded by Ken Schwartz, a lifelong art collector with an impeccable eye for talent, Detour Gallery boasts an extensive collection of artwork handpicked by Schwartz over the past 50 years[15]. The gallery represents a diverse array of artists, each with their own unique style and story to tell. From the bold and vibrant pop art pieces to the intricate and thought-provoking collages, every work of art at Detour Gallery is a conversation starter.

One of the most striking aspects of Detour Gallery is its commitment to showcasing the work of emerging artists. Schwartz firmly believes in nurturing new talent and providing a platform for their voices to be heard. This dedication to supporting up-and-coming artists has led to the discovery of some truly remarkable talents, such as Willie Torbert, a former New York City teacher whose paper collages have garnered critical acclaim[4].

Detour Gallery’s exhibitions are always a treat for the senses. Each show is carefully curated to highlight the unique perspectives and techniques of the featured artists. Recent exhibitions have included “Dreamwreck” by Holly Suzanne Rader, a solo show that explored the intersection of dreams and reality[8], and “Fortitude,” a summer group show that celebrated the unyielding strength of the human spirit[2][8].

But Detour Gallery’s impact extends far beyond its walls. The gallery has become a cultural hub for the community, hosting events, workshops, and artist talks that engage and inspire visitors of all ages. Schwartz’s passion for art education is evident in every aspect of the gallery’s programming, from the interactive exhibits to the thoughtful discussions that take place during opening receptions.

In 2023, Detour Gallery made an exciting expansion to New York City, opening a second location in the heart of the Chelsea Arts District[4][6]. This 2,700 square foot space, located at 545 W. 23rd St., brings the same commitment to showcasing exceptional art and supporting emerging artists that has made the Red Bank location such a success. The New York City debut exhibition, “Worth The Detour,” featured a carefully curated selection of works from the gallery’s roster of talented artists[8].

The expansion to New York City is just one example of how Detour Gallery continues to evolve and grow. In January 2024, the gallery announced a groundbreaking partnership with renowned Paris-based gallery owner and curator, Carole Kvasnevski[5][6]. Together, they are rebranding Detour Gallery as Kvasnevski Schwartz Projects (KSP), a dynamic venture aimed at uniting the artistic landscapes of North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.

This transformative collaboration seeks to bring together the best of both worlds, showcasing exceptional artists from across continents and providing a platform for their unparalleled work. Shayna Schwartz, Director of Detour Gallery and daughter of Ken Schwartz, emphasizes the commitment to honoring the gallery’s established legacy while propelling it into a new era[5][6].

Carole Kvasnevski brings over 20 years of expertise to the partnership, having made a significant mark through her Paris-based Galerie Carole Kvasnevski and her involvement with the esteemed art magazine Afrikadaa[5]. Her passion for art and culture has led to impactful collaborations with institutions such as UNESCO, and her keen eye for talent has been instrumental in shaping the global art landscape.

The launch of Kvasnevski Schwartz Projects is a reflection of Shayna and Carole’s shared vision and unwavering dedication to promoting diverse and impactful art from around the world[5]. The gallery promises to captivate art enthusiasts and patrons alike, offering a tapestry of creativity that transcends geographical boundaries.

As Detour Gallery embarks on this exciting new chapter, it remains committed to its core values of supporting emerging artists, fostering creativity, and engaging with the community. The gallery’s exhibitions continue to push boundaries and spark conversations, as evidenced by recent shows like “Of Poetry and Prophecy” by Michael Labua[8], which delved deep into the caverns of the human psyche, and “Worlds Apart,” a women’s exhibition that celebrated the unique perspectives and experiences of female artists[8].

But Detour Gallery’s impact extends beyond the art world. The gallery has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for the community, particularly during challenging times. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Detour Gallery adapted its programming to provide a safe and uplifting space for visitors. The gallery hosted virtual exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops, ensuring that the power of art could continue to connect and inspire people, even from a distance.

As the world begins to heal and recover, Detour Gallery stands as a testament to the resilience and transformative power of art. The gallery’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives has never been more important, and its role in fostering understanding, empathy, and connection has never been more vital.

Looking to the future, Detour Gallery and Kvasnevski Schwartz Projects are poised to make an even greater impact on the global art scene. With a shared vision of uniting artists and art lovers from around the world, the gallery is set to become a destination for those seeking to experience the very best in contemporary art.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, a visit to Detour Gallery is an unforgettable experience. From the moment you step through the doors, you’re transported into a world of creativity, passion, and possibility. The artwork on display is more than just a feast for the eyes; it’s a invitation to engage, to question, and to be transformed.

As Ken Schwartz reflects on his journey from selling cars to living atop his own art gallery, he marvels at the power of art to change lives[4]. “I did it to have fun,” he says of the gallery’s early days. But what started as a hobby has become a legacy, a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the human spirit.

And so, as Detour Gallery embarks on its next chapter, we invite you to join us on this journey of discovery and transformation. Whether you’re exploring the gallery’s exhibitions in person or engaging with its programming online, you’ll find yourself inspired, challenged, and uplifted by the power of art.

In a world that often feels divided and disconnected, Detour Gallery stands as a beacon of hope and unity. Through the universal language of art, we can come together, celebrate our differences, and find common ground. And that, perhaps, is the greatest detour of all.

Citations: [1] https://www.moleskine.com/en-us/the-world-of-moleskine/detour/ [2] https://fineartglobe.com/exhibitions/the-unyielding-strength-of-the-human-spirit/ [3] https://detourgallery.com/news/ [4] https://www.app.com/story/life/arts/2023/04/04/detour-gallery-red-bank-nj-expanding-chelsea-manhattan/70061448007/ [5] https://www.ksprojectsnyc.com/news/5-detour-gallery-relaunches-as-kvasnevski-schwartz-projects/ [6] https://detourgallery.com [7] https://detourgallery.com/press/ [8] https://detourgallery.com/exhibitions/ [9] https://detour.eupschools.org [10] https://www.amazon.com/DETOUR-Professional-NSF-Approved-Preparation-Toxin-Free/dp/B09WF2DJQR [11] https://mag.rochester.edu/programs-events/detours/ [12] https://daytonahelmets.com/products/d-o-t-daytona-detour-hi-gloss-black [13] https://detourframingnj.com/exhibitions [14] https://www.artsy.net/partner/detour-gallery [15] https://www.linkedin.com/company/detour-gallery [16] https://detourgallery.com/artists/69-holly-suzanne-rader/works/17497-holly-suzanne-rader-girl-with-the-most-cake-ii-2023/ [17] https://www.app.com/picture-gallery/life/arts/2023/04/03/detour-gallery-red-bank/11592587002/ [18] https://x-files.fandom.com/wiki/Detour/Gallery [19] https://www.glucksman.org/exhibitions/detour [20] https://www.yelp.com/biz/detour-gallery-red-bank