Founded in 2006 by Susan Eisner Eley, Susan Eley Fine Art (SEFA) has established itself as a dynamic presence in the New York art scene. With two locations – one on the Lower East Side of Manhattan and another in Hudson, Upstate New York – SEFA offers a unique and intimate viewing experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike[1][3].
Your partner for fine art services. Request a quote now.
ContactGallery Concept and Space
SEFA was conceived as a salon-style gallery, setting itself apart from the traditional “white cube” model prevalent in contemporary art circles. This approach creates a more welcoming and intimate environment for viewers to engage with the artwork[3]. The gallery’s original location in an Upper West Side townhouse in Manhattan further emphasized this cozy, approachable atmosphere[3].
Artist Roster and Exhibition Focus
SEFA hosts a diverse roster of American and international artists, primarily focusing on emerging and mid-career talents[1][2]. The gallery’s program encompasses a wide range of media, including painting, printmaking, sculpture, and photography[3]. Exhibitions at both New York venues showcase a mix of abstract and figurative work, created by artists from the United States, Latin America, Asia, and Europe[3].
Beyond Traditional Exhibitions
In addition to its regular exhibition schedule, SEFA has expanded its role in the art community by hosting various events and participating in art fairs. The gallery has organized:
- Artist talks
- Political fundraisers
- Literary and poetry salons
- Panel discussions on cultural and political topics
SEFA has also represented its artists at art fairs in Miami, Houston, San Francisco, New York City, and Toronto[3].
Adapting to Changing Times
The gallery has shown remarkable adaptability, especially during challenging periods. In Summer 2020, SEFA opened its Hudson location initially as a “pandemic pop-up.” This satellite space quickly became an integral part of the Hudson Valley art scene, welcoming both local Upstate art communities and visitors to this growing arts region[3].
In Fall 2022, SEFA relocated its city location to the Lower East Side, joining the vibrant downtown art community. The new two-story space has allowed the gallery to showcase both new and established artists in this prime location[3].
A Female-Led Enterprise
SEFA is proudly female-owned and operated, with Susan Eisner Eley at the helm as owner and director. The gallery actively supports feminist and BIPOC artists and principles, contributing to the diversity and inclusivity of the art world[3].
Susan Eisner Eley: A Multifaceted Background
Before founding the gallery, Susan Eisner Eley had a diverse career that uniquely prepared her for her role. She worked as an editor and writer for national and regional publications, covering fine art, dance, and travel. Her professional experience includes positions at the Morgan Library & Museum, the Mayor’s Art Commission of the City of New York, and an internship at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice, Italy[3].
Interestingly, Eley also has a background as a professional ballet dancer with the Feld Ballet in New York. Her academic credentials include a BA in Art History from Brown University and an MA in Visual Arts Administration from New York University[3].
Susan Eley Fine Art has carved out a distinctive niche in the New York art world. By combining a welcoming, salon-style approach with a commitment to showcasing diverse, contemporary talent, SEFA continues to be a vital platform for artists and art lovers alike. As it evolves and adapts to the changing art landscape, SEFA remains true to its core mission of supporting emerging and mid-career artists while fostering a vibrant, inclusive art community.
Citations:
[1] https://www.voltaartfairs.com/journal/meet-the-gallery-susan-eisner-eley
[2] https://www.womenofculture.org/experiences/les-jan27th
[3] https://susaneleyfineart.com/About/Gallery
[4] https://www.ubugallery.com/project/sefa-gallery-susan-eley-fine-art/
[5] https://www.artsy.net/partner/susan-eley-fine-art