The Paula Cooper Gallery, founded in 1968, has played a pivotal role in shaping the contemporary art landscape in New York City and beyond. As one of the pioneering galleries in SoHo, Paula Cooper’s vision and discerning eye have fostered the careers of many renowned artists, cementing her place as a legend in the art world[1][3].
Your partner for fine art services. Request a quote now.
ContactHumble Beginnings in SoHo
In 1968, Paula Cooper opened her first gallery space at 96 Prince Street with just $4,400. Despite being told that opening a gallery downtown was “crazy” and that “no one would go there,” Cooper was determined to create a space that would challenge the status quo[1]. The gallery’s inaugural exhibition, which featured the work of artists like Carl Andre, Dan Flavin, and Donald Judd, is now recognized as a seminal moment in the development of conceptual and minimal art[1].
Pioneering the Chelsea Art Scene
As SoHo transformed into an art hub, Cooper’s gallery grew in prominence. In 1996, the gallery relocated to Chelsea, becoming part of the neighborhood’s initial wave of art spaces[3]. The move to a larger space at 534 West 21st Street allowed Cooper to continue showcasing the work of influential artists like Carl Andre and Christian Marclay, whose 24-hour video installation “The Clock” was exhibited at the gallery in 2011[1][2].
Guiding Artists with Conviction
Throughout her career, Paula Cooper has been known for her ability to guide artists with conviction. Her discerning eye and persuasive nature have played a crucial role in the success of many artists, including Cecily Brown[3]. When Brown unveiled her first exhibition at the Paula Cooper Gallery in 2016, Cooper insisted on placing the artwork lower on the wall, emphasizing the need for viewers to be fully immersed in the paintings[3].
Ensuring a Lasting Legacy
As Paula Cooper celebrates her 83rd birthday, she is ensuring the gallery’s lasting legacy by introducing four new partners[3]. Steve Henry, the gallery’s director, assumes the role of senior partner, while her son Lucas Cooper joins as a managing partner[3]. Additionally, two longstanding employees, Alexias Johnson and Anthony Allen, have been welcomed as partners, solidifying the gallery’s future[3].
The Paula Cooper Gallery’s enduring impact on the art world cannot be overstated. From its humble beginnings in SoHo to its current prominence in Chelsea, the gallery has consistently championed conceptual and minimal art, fostering the careers of countless artists and shaping the cultural landscape of New York City.
Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paula_Cooper_Gallery
[2] https://www.paulacoopergallery.com
[3] https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/16/arts/design/paula-cooper-gallery.html
[4] https://www.contemporaryartlibrary.org/venue/paula-cooper-gallery-7683
[5] https://paulacoopergallery-studio.com