Eleven Rivington, now known as 11R, is a prominent art gallery located in New York City’s vibrant Lower East Side. Since its inception in 2007, the gallery has established itself as a key player in the contemporary art scene, focusing on emerging artists and innovative exhibitions that reflect the dynamic nature of the urban environment.
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ContactOrigins and Evolution
The gallery was originally opened at 11 Rivington Street, occupying a modest 650 square feet of space. Under the directorship of Augusto Arbizo, it quickly became known for showcasing local talents and fostering a community of artists. In 2012, recognizing the need for more space, 11R expanded to a larger 1,200-square-foot location at 195 Chrystie Street, which previously housed a photo lab. This move marked a significant step in the gallery’s growth, allowing for more ambitious exhibitions and a broader range of artistic expressions.
In 2015, the gallery underwent a rebranding, changing its name from Eleven Rivington to 11R. This name change coincided with the consolidation of its operations at the Chrystie Street location, which was set to expand to 3,200 square feet, nearly five times the original size. This strategic move not only reflected the gallery’s growth but also its commitment to remaining a vital part of the Lower East Side art community.
Artistic Focus
11R is dedicated to promoting both emerging and established artists, with a particular emphasis on New York-based talents. The gallery’s roster includes a diverse array of artists such as Kevin Zucker, Chris Caccamise, Jackie Saccoccio, and Adam Shechter, alongside international figures like Berliner Volker Hüller and Brazilian artist Caetano de Almeida. This blend of local and global perspectives enriches the gallery’s programming, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience for visitors.
The exhibitions at 11R often challenge conventional artistic boundaries, showcasing a variety of mediums and styles. Past exhibitions have included works by contemporary painters, sculptors, and multimedia artists, reflecting the gallery’s commitment to innovation and experimentation. For instance, the final show at the original Rivington location featured artists like Assume Vivid Astro Focus and Shirley Jaffe, highlighting the gallery’s dedication to showcasing vibrant, thought-provoking art.
Community Engagement
11R is not just a gallery but a hub for artistic dialogue and community engagement. Its location in the Lower East Side places it at the heart of a thriving cultural district, surrounded by other galleries and artistic institutions like the New Museum. This proximity fosters collaboration and cross-pollination among artists, curators, and art enthusiasts.
The gallery frequently hosts events, discussions, and openings that invite the public to engage with the art and the artists. This approach not only enhances the visibility of the artists it represents but also cultivates a deeper appreciation for contemporary art within the community.
Eleven Rivington, or 11R, stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of contemporary art in New York City. With its focus on emerging talent, commitment to innovation, and active engagement with the community, the gallery continues to play a crucial role in shaping the artistic narrative of the Lower East Side. As it moves forward, 11R remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of contemporary art and providing a platform for diverse voices in the art world.
Citations:
[1] https://bmw-art-guide.com/categories/galleries/eleven-rivington-new-york-usa
[2] https://bmw-art-guide.com/cities/new-york/eleven-rivington-new-york-usa
[3] https://www.yelp.com/biz/eleven-rivington-new-york
[4] https://www.artnews.com/art-in-america/features/11-rivington-195-chrystie-58813/
[5] https://news.artnet.com/market/eleven-rivington-is-renamed-11r-312802