First Street Gallery

Nestled in the vibrant art district of Chelsea, New York, First Street Gallery has been a beacon for contemporary art enthusiasts and emerging artists alike for over five decades. Founded in 1969, this nonprofit gallery has consistently provided a platform for artists to showcase their work, engage with the art community, and further their careers. Let’s take a closer look at what makes First Street Gallery a unique and essential part of the New York art scene.

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A Rich History of Nurturing Talent

Since its inception on the Lower East Side, First Street Gallery has been dedicated to launching and nurturing artists’ careers[6]. The gallery has played a crucial role in sharing the work of emerging and mid-career artists with the general public, curators, collectors, critics, and fellow artists[1]. By providing exposure to the New York City art community, First Street Gallery has helped countless artists gain recognition and establish themselves in the competitive world of contemporary art.

Juried Exhibitions: Opportunities for Nonmember Artists

One of the standout features of First Street Gallery is its commitment to providing opportunities for nonmember artists through juried exhibitions. These shows, which have been held since the gallery’s early days, offer emerging and mid-career artists, as well as those with established backgrounds outside of major art centers, a chance to have their work seen by a wide audience[1].

The gallery’s annual National Juried Exhibition, open to nonmember U.S. resident artists working in a diverse range of two and three-dimensional media, has been a staple of the gallery’s programming for decades[1]. Recent jurors for this exhibition have included nationally prominent art critics, artists, art historians, curators, and gallerists specializing in contemporary works[1].

In addition to the National Juried Exhibition, First Street Gallery has introduced new juried show opportunities, such as the “9 for 19” exhibitions and the upcoming SELECTS 2024[1]. These exhibitions offer selected artists the chance to display a representative body of work in an installation of their own design, allowing them to showcase their art to its best advantage[1].

Member Artists: A Diverse and Talented Community

First Street Gallery is proud to represent a diverse group of talented member artists, including Jessica McGarry Bartlet, Sallie Benton, John Benton, Anita Dawson, Suzi Evalenko, Henry Feeley, Diane Fitch, Wendy Gittler, and Gilles Giuntini, among others[4]. These artists work in a wide range of media and styles, contributing to the gallery’s dynamic and engaging exhibitions.

Exhibitions: A Showcase of Contemporary Art

Throughout the year, First Street Gallery presents a series of exhibitions featuring the work of both member and nonmember artists. These exhibitions cover a broad spectrum of contemporary art, from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media.

The gallery’s 2024 season promises to be an exciting one, with exhibitions by artists such as Marianne Barcellona, Michele Liebler, Dana Saulnier, and Wendy Gittler[2]. Additionally, the gallery will host its Annual Affiliates Exhibition and the highly anticipated SELECTS 2024 juried show[2].

Educational Programs and Artist Support

As an artist-run gallery, First Street Gallery is committed to developing programs that encourage and support visual artists[10]. The gallery offers various educational opportunities, such as artist talks, panel discussions, and workshops, which provide a platform for artists to share their knowledge and experiences with the community.

Furthermore, First Street Gallery’s membership program offers artists a supportive and collaborative environment in which to grow and develop their careers[10]. By joining the gallery, artists gain access to a network of peers, opportunities to exhibit their work, and the guidance and support of the gallery’s experienced staff and board of directors.

A Commitment to Accessibility and Community Engagement

First Street Gallery is dedicated to making contemporary art accessible to a wide audience. The gallery’s exhibitions are open to the public, and admission is free, allowing anyone to experience the work of talented contemporary artists.

Moreover, the gallery actively engages with the local community through various outreach programs and partnerships with schools, community organizations, and other arts institutions. By fostering connections between artists and the public, First Street Gallery helps to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of contemporary art.

The Future of First Street Gallery

As First Street Gallery looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of supporting and promoting contemporary artists. The gallery will continue to present thought-provoking exhibitions, provide opportunities for emerging and established artists, and engage with the community through educational programs and outreach initiatives.

With its rich history, dedicated staff, and talented roster of artists, First Street Gallery is poised to remain a vital part of the New York art scene for years to come. As the gallery adapts to the ever-changing landscape of contemporary art, it will undoubtedly continue to be a source of inspiration, innovation, and creativity for artists and art lovers alike.

In conclusion, First Street Gallery is more than just an art gallery; it is a community of artists, a hub for contemporary art, and a testament to the enduring power of creativity and human expression. By providing a platform for artists to share their work, engage with the public, and further their careers, First Street Gallery plays an essential role in the vibrant and ever-evolving world of contemporary art.

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