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New York Kunst

My process is very instinctive

I have always been captivated by gallerists who spotlight artistic voices that were or still are underrepresented. Many of these artists, now aged or departed, leave behind a body of work that remains resonant and ripe for exploration by researchers, scholars, art writers, collectors, institutions and art fairs. Meredith Rosen Gallery is a prime example of a gallery dedicated to this mission. Furthermore by showcasing a diverse array of artists, she transcends in the prolific New York art scene.
Guillaume Bijl, Matratzenraum, 2023 at Art Basel Unlimited

The gallery works with estates as well as both established and emerging artists, creating a roster that is nothing short of fascinating. Among the emerging talents she champions are Anna Uddenberg, Chino Amobi, Tobias Spichtig, and Catharine Czudej., Additionally, she represents established groundbreaking artists, including Anna Jermaolewa, Jennifer Rubell, Charlemagne Palestine, and Guillaume Bijl. Her curatorial vision extends beyond NYC, demonstrating a deep affinity for international artists, three happen to be from Basel – Rudolf Maeglin, renowned for his stunning baustelle (construction site) paintings; Irène Zurkinden, seldomly shown outside Europe – her first appearance in the US was at Meredith Rosen; and Hannah Villiger, celebrated for her extraordinary photographic sculptures.

What drives the gallerist? How does she scout for works, position her artists, and define her role as a gallerist? In an interview for Les Nouveaux Riches, Erka Shalari finds out.

Can you tell me something about the gallery space, such as what was its previous life before you moved in or how it feels?
We have two spaces. The space on 80th Street was actually a psychiatrist’s office before we opened the gallery. It’s not a white box in the least, but artist’s have used the context to create incredible installations. Three examples here: Charlemagne Palestine with the show Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo (2023), Anna Uddenberg with the show Continental Breakfast (2023), or the Installation (Fortune Teller) by Guillaume Bijl.

How do your shows come to life? Can you walk us through the process?
I can’t generalize and say it’s one way, but my process is very instinctive, I’m most excited right now about small group presentations combining estates with contemporary.

How does it feel to you to represent artists‘ works?
Every exhibition comes from a deep belief in the artist and body of work that we’re presenting. It’s our responsibility to educate the public about the artist’s in our program, we do it in a way that’s generous and from the heart. 

What have you learned from your artists?
I’ve learned that if you’re working with a great artist, the most important thing you can do is provide a safe space where they can feel uncomfortable. 

Making art can be scary, but in that territory is sometimes the best show. 

Address and contact:
Meredith Rosen Gallery
11 East 80th Street, New York, NY 10075
www.meredithrosengallery.com