In the ever-evolving New York art scene, where many galleries have recently shuttered their doors, two dynamic players are charting a new course together.
Proxyco, founded in 2017, teams up with Instituto de Visión, which made its New York debut in 2022, to share a vibrant space at 88 Eldridge Street.
Instituto de Visión has thrived in this location since its inception, and both galleries are united in their commitment to uplifting emerging and mid-career Latin American and Latinx artists.
Their collaboration represents a creative strategy to flourish even as challenges loom.
The Power of Collaboration
The decision to share this space stems from a strong belief in the power of collaboration within New York’s diverse art community.
The co-founder of Proxyco shared their excitement about this opportunity, signaling a transformative approach to partnership.
Similarly, the artistic director of Instituto de Visión emphasized how their joint efforts will strengthen their influence throughout the broader art landscape.
This partnership is rooted in a deep friendship, cultivated over years of shared experiences in Bogotá’s vibrant art scene.
Their bond has only deepened through collaborations at art fairs and conversations about their artistic endeavors, allowing them to uplift one another’s work.
Innovative Space and Programming
As they embark on this new chapter together, a buzz of anticipation fills the air.
Creative brainstorming and idea exchanges are already underway.
With plans for minor renovations by architect Morris Adjmi, the shared gallery will provide improved office space, enhanced storage, a private viewing room, and a welcoming reception area.
The design of their Eldridge Street location aims to accommodate both galleries’ unique needs, facilitating flexible exhibit rotations and diverse programming.
They are committed to adapting to their artists’ visions, whether for intimate showcases or grand displays.
This collaborative environment will not only broaden the representation of Latin American and Latinx artistry but also deepen understanding of their multifaceted narratives.
A particularly exciting aspect of their partnership involves the potential for joint programming, where their schedules align.
Each gallery plans to debut its inaugural exhibitions under this collaborative model on February 27, showcasing solo works from Bogotá-born artists Camilo Godoy and Nancy Friedemann-Sánchez.
Godoy’s multidisciplinary creations—rich with themes of migration and identity—will be featured alongside Friedemann-Sánchez’s detailed paintings, which pay homage to Colombian artistic traditions.
Community-Centric Approach
Both galleries have decided to remain rooted in their original neighborhood, valuing their identity and the community they’ve built over the lure of more prestigious locations.
They believe that true strength and success come from fostering enduring connections, not from chasing fleeting trends in the art world.
This shared vision underscores how friendships and collaboration can transform not only their artistic practices but also serve as a robust economic force.
Together, Proxyco and Instituto de Visión are redefining success in the art community, embracing meaningful teamwork rather than simply relocating for visibility.