It’s a modest space for an organization with an illustrious history. This weekend, New York Artists Equity Association will open its first show in a new gallery at 245 Broome St.
The non-profit group was founded in 1947 by some of downtown New York’s art luminaries, including Edward Hopper, Louise Nevelson and Thomas Hart Benton. Artist Equity has been without a space to call its own for the past four years. The New York Times explains:
(The gallery) was endowed by a gift from the painters Jacob Lawrence and Gwendolyn Knight Lawrence, both former members. Mr. Lawrence, who died in 2000, was also a past president of Artists Equity. Though starting another gallery was on their wishlist, “it wasn’t possible until the gift,” said Melinda Wang, the executive director of Artists Equity. The money allowed them to secure a three-year lease on the 700-square-foot space, which they also plan to turn into a community and event hub. Though it’s a nonprofit, and will be staffed by volunteers, the idea is that it will still bring in sales. “We’re trying to go back to the core mission of being a resource for artists,” Ms. Wang said.
The exhibition opening tonight is titled: “2015:1947.” Eight artists are displaying works inspired by Artists Equity founders. The opening is from 6-8 p.m.
