Anyone who considers themselves an art lover is familiar with art galleries in NYC, but there are more than 1,500 of them spread across the city, from famed Chelsea venues to smaller pop-up spots in Brooklyn. They show abstract art, Pop Art images and contemporary sculptures (and more), and some even hand out free champagne at exhibit openings. If you’re stumped about where to start with art, we got you. This summer, go gallery hopping at the warehouses and studios that hold the newest artwork from legends and newcomers alike. Because when the sweltering heat of summer drives you indoors to places with AC, these NYC galleries should be on your list.
This well-established uptown gallery is the ultimate in blue-chip venues, one of the best in the city, offering museum-quality shows of Impressionist and modernist masters. It also represents the work of contemporary British figurative giant Lucian Freud.
This gallery in Greenpoint, Brooklyn showcases work from a variety of artists and media, with upcoming exhibitions from Adam Frezza, Terri Chiao, Rachel Gorchov and many others.
Upcoming exhibition: “BTW”
May 11–June 17
Since 1975, Kathryn Markel has represented contemporary artists whose work is visually compelling and intellectually rigorous. Featuring works focusing on abstraction and abstracted landscapes, the diverse selection at this gallery is united by masterful technique, innovative exploration and an evident love of the creative process. 529 W 20th St, Suite 6W (212-366-5368, markelfinearts.com). Wed–Sat, Tue 10am–6pm.
Established in 1984, AFA Gallery specializes in edgy contemporary fine art that is wildly imaginative and indulges the senses and engages the emotions with layers of symbolism and dark complexity.
Open Daily
On exhibition: Colin Christian: Cherry Popper
This gallery left its Rem Koolhaas–designed loft in Soho for new Koolhaas-designed digs in an old Chelsea garage. Epic exhibitions feature hip Americans and Europeans, including Teresita Fernández, Do-Ho Suh, Kutlug Ataman and Tracy Emin.
Second gallery at: 201 Chrystie St (212-254-0054, lehmannmaupin.com). Wed–Sat, Tue 11am–6pm.
The Ross Art Group has specialized in Original Vintage Posters for over 20 years. From the Belle Époque period through the Pop Art era, the Gallery represents over 120 years of advertising posters. Subjects span from liquor to military, fashion, travel and more. The gallery is a haven for novice and collector alike, and its sun-filled fourth floor space provides a wonderful experience. The Ross Art Group is centrally located; just blocks from MoMA, Grand Central Station, and the Apple Store. Custom framing, delivery, and installation are available. 532 Madison Avenue, 4th Floor (212-223-1525, rossartgroup.com). Mon–Fri 10am–6pm, Sat 10am–5pm.
Current exhibition: “SHE INSPIRES”
Through May 20
Untitled Space occupies the first floor of a Tribeca building where it showcases the contemporary art on pristine white walls. Founded in 2014 by Indira Cesarine, the gallery features conceptual art in a wide variety of formats including paintings, photographs and sculptures. See “SHE INSPIRES” this month, featuring female icons depicted by 60 artists. 45 Lispenard St, suite 1W (212-780- 0960, untitled-space.com). Wed–Fri, Mon, Tue 10am–6pm; Sat, Sun noon–5pm.
