David Zwirner has expanded its gallery presence with the launch of 52 Walker, a new exhibition space located at 52 Walker Street, New York, NY. This exciting addition to the Tribeca art scene opened in October 2021, under the directorship of Ebony L. Haynes. The inaugural exhibition featured a solo presentation of works by Kandis Williams, marking a significant moment for contemporary art in New York City.
A Unique Vision for a New Gallery in New York
52 Walker distinguishes itself from other David Zwirner galleries through its unique programming and Haynes’s curatorial vision. Housed in a landmark five-story building, previously known as the M1-5 Lounge, the gallery occupies the renovated first floor, designed by Selldorf Architects. This new space is conceived to operate with a different rhythm, blending the commercial gallery model with the extended timelines typical of a kunsthalle.
This approach allows visitors to deeply engage with each of the four annual exhibitions over a longer period, fostering a more profound connection with the presented artworks. While the art on display at 52 Walker Street, New York, NY will be available for sale, the gallery will not formally represent the exhibiting artists. This model allows for a diverse roster of artists at various points in their careers and from varied backgrounds, aligning with Haynes’s commitment to conceptual and research-based practices. The gallery enhances visitor experience through its Clarion exhibition catalogue series and related public programs, enriching the engagement with each show.
Inaugural Exhibition by Kandis Williams
The opening exhibition at 52 Walker showcased the multifaceted work of Kandis Williams, a Los Angeles-based artist whose practice encompasses collage, performance, video, assemblage, and installation. Williams’s work critically examines themes of race, nationalism, authority, and eroticism, rooted in critical theory. For her solo show at 52 Walker Street, New York, NY, Williams created new pieces while in residence in New York, offering a powerful introduction to the gallery’s mission.
Exhibition Schedule Through 2022
52 Walker has announced a compelling exhibition schedule extending through 2022, promising a dynamic program of contemporary art:
- Kandis Williams: October–December 2021
- Nikita Gale: January–March 2022
- Nora Turato: April–June 2022
- Tiona Nekkia McClodden: July–September 2022
- Tau Lewis: October–December 2022
This lineup signals 52 Walker as a significant venue for experiencing cutting-edge contemporary art in New York, NY. Art enthusiasts are encouraged to visit 52 Walker Street to explore these exhibitions and participate in the ongoing dialogue within the contemporary art world.
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