Lyles & King, a contemporary art gallery in New York, announced its closure on July 2, 2023, after 11 years of operation. The gallery expressed gratitude to its artists and supporters in a social media post. Over its lifetime, Lyles & King curated 118 exhibitions, including notable shows featuring artists like Jessie Makinson and Cato Ouyang.
History of Lyles & King Gallery
Founded in May 2015 by Isaac Lyles and journalist Alexandra King, Lyles & King quickly became a significant player in New York's evolving art scene. Initially debuting at the NADA New York spring fair, the gallery established its first physical location on Forsyth Street. During its early years, it was known for promoting artists such as Mira Schor and Chris Hood.
In 2020, Lyles & King relocated to a larger space on Catherine Street, which allowed for outdoor exhibitions. This move coincided with a group exhibition that celebrated the gallery's expansion. The new location enabled the gallery to host diverse artistic practices, blending multimedia and performance art.
Impact on the Art Community
Throughout its tenure, Lyles & King became a platform for both emerging and established artists. In 2022, the gallery celebrated its 10th anniversary with a group exhibition that juxtaposed works of renowned artists like Claes Oldenburg and Judith Bernstein alongside emerging talents. The gallery's commitment to fostering a community of artists with shared intellectual interests was evident, as noted by Davina Semo, who moved from the established Marlborough Gallery to Lyles & King in its inaugural year.
The closure of Lyles & King reflects a broader trend in the contemporary art world, where many galleries have been shutting down physical locations. In 2023 alone, New York City saw the loss of six galleries, indicating a challenging environment for art spaces.
Final Words from Isaac Lyles
In an email to Hyperallergic, Lyles shared words of encouragement for other galleries facing similar challenges: “Be fearless. Be slow. Be true to yourself. Don’t compare. Collaborate. Be patient: you’re building a foundation brick by brick. Work ferociously, show great work.” His sentiments encapsulate the struggle and resilience of the contemporary art community.
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