Etherton Gallery

Tucson, Arizona is home to a true gem for photography enthusiasts – Etherton Gallery. Established in 1981, this renowned gallery has been showcasing the icons of photographic history as well as the contemporary artists changing the course of the medium for over four decades. With its vast collection of museum-quality works and thought-provoking exhibitions, Etherton Gallery has solidified its position as the premier destination for photography collectors and fans in the Southwest.

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The Early Years

The story of Etherton Gallery begins with its founder and director, Terry Etherton. In the early 1980s, Etherton made the bold decision to move from San Francisco to Tucson and open a photography gallery, despite having limited business experience. “I discovered a small, 1500 sq. ft. storefront for rent on Sixth St. near Fourth Avenue,” Etherton recalls. “Etherton Gallery remained in this location until 1988.”[7]

Etherton’s early shows featured photographers he knew from the Bay Area, such as Richard Misrach and Linda Connor, as well as a 20-year retrospective of Danny Lyon’s work. These exhibitions helped put Etherton Gallery on the map and garnered national attention.[7]

Building Relationships and Reputation

In the gallery’s early years, Etherton embarked on epic summer trips across the country to meet with museum curators, collectors, and the few other photography dealers in business at the time. “My goal was to see as many curators as I could and to visit as many major league stadiums as possible,” Etherton explains. “These trips were important to the survival of the gallery. I managed to sell just enough photographs to pay for the trip.”[7]

These relationships, along with Etherton’s invitation to join the Association of International Photography Dealers (AIPAD) in 1985, were crucial to establishing the gallery’s reputation.[7] Today, Etherton Gallery is known around the world for its strong web presence and participation in major art fairs, exposing its program to a huge international audience.[7]

A New Chapter on Convent Avenue

After 33 years in its downtown Tucson location, Etherton Gallery embarked on a new chapter in 2021 by moving to a stunning space in the city’s historic Barrio Viejo neighborhood. Etherton had long admired the building and jumped at the chance to make it the gallery’s new home when it became available.[9]

The new location features an unconventional layout, natural light from skylights, an outdoor patio, and ample storage – all elements that have reinvigorated Etherton. “Every day I come in, I find something else I like about it,” he shares. “I keep looking for things I wish were this way or that way. But I haven’t found anything that I would change.”[9]

Etherton Gallery’s move has also contributed to the growth of a vibrant arts district south of Congress Street, dubbed the “SOCO Arts and Entertainment District.” The area is home to numerous galleries, museums, hotels, and restaurants, all within walking distance. Etherton is currently developing a map to help visitors explore all the neighborhood has to offer.[9]

The Artists and Exhibitions

Over the years, Etherton Gallery has exhibited works by a who’s who of photography legends, including:

Ansel Adams[10]
Diane Arbus[10][12]
Richard Avedon
Harry Callahan[10]
Henri Cartier-Bresson
Robert Frank[10]
Lee Friedlander[10]
Graciela Iturbide[10]
Danny Lyon[10]
Richard Misrach[10]
Tina Modotti[10]
Aaron Siskind[10]
W. Eugene Smith[10]
Edward Weston[10]
Garry Winogrand[10]

In addition to these masters, the gallery represents and exhibits many notable contemporary photographers, such as:

Alanna Airitam[10][13]
David Emitt Adams[10]
Michael Berman[10]
Kate Breakey[10]
Alejandro Cartagena[10]
Frank Gohlke[10]
Mark Klett[10]
Holly Roberts[10]
Joel-Peter Witkin[10]

Etherton Gallery’s exhibitions often highlight important social and cultural issues. For example, the upcoming show “Alanna Airitam: Black Diamonds” (April 9 – June 22, 2024) features Airitam’s portraits celebrating Black people and their contributions to history and culture.[13] By presenting diverse perspectives and thought-provoking works, the gallery fosters dialogue and understanding through the power of photography.

Education and Community Engagement

Beyond its exhibitions, Etherton Gallery is committed to educating the public about photography and supporting the local arts community. The gallery regularly hosts artist talks, book signings, and other events to engage visitors and deepen their appreciation for the medium.

Etherton himself is a wealth of knowledge, with decades of experience and a deep love for photography. As an appraiser on the PBS series “Antiques Roadshow,” he shares his expertise with a national audience, helping people discover the value and significance of their photographic treasures.[11]

The gallery also partners with local organizations and institutions, such as the Center for Creative Photography at the University of Arizona, to promote photography and support emerging artists in the region.

Looking to the Future

As Etherton Gallery enters its fifth decade, Terry Etherton remains as passionate and energized as ever. “Now, in our 42nd year in business, we are proud of the legacy that we have created,” he reflects. “We plan to remain in business for as long as we can.”[7]

With its new location, roster of renowned artists, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of photography, Etherton Gallery is poised for continued success. As Etherton notes, “The future looks bright for Etherton Gallery and we are moving ahead with scheduling exhibitions and art fairs years in advance.”[7]

For photography lovers, a visit to Etherton Gallery is a must when in Tucson. As one reviewer put it, “Etherton Gallery is a gem not to be missed when visiting Tucson. We have visited multiple times over the years, and have hit on some fantastic exhibitions.”[19] Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply appreciate the power of the photographic image, Etherton Gallery offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the past, present, and future of this vital art form.

So the next time you find yourself in the Southwest, be sure to make your way to 340 S. Convent Avenue in Tucson and immerse yourself in the world of photography at Etherton Gallery. You won’t be disappointed.

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