Gordon VeneKlasen has unveiled a significant transformation for his art gallery, establishing his eponymous venture by absorbing Michael Werner Gallery's spaces in New York and London. This strategic shift involves promoting two long-serving employees, Justine Birbil and Kadee Robbins, to partner roles, thereby fortifying the leadership structure of the newly independent VeneKlasen Gallery.
The restructuring includes the closure of Michael Werner Gallery's Los Angeles outpost, allowing VeneKlasen to concentrate efforts on the established art hubs of New York and London. Birbil, with a career spanning over three decades alongside VeneKlasen, will continue to oversee global operations from New York, while Robbins, who managed Werner's London branch since its inception in 2012, will maintain her leadership position at VeneKlasen's London location.
This new chapter for VeneKlasen Gallery will see a broadening of its artistic scope, retaining artists previously represented by VeneKlasen at Werner, such as Hurvin Anderson and Issy Wood, while actively seeking to incorporate artists with a more conceptual focus. The gallery is poised to make its debut at Art Basel Qatar with a solo exhibition of Issy Wood's work, followed by significant shows featuring Sigmar Polke's 'The Dream of Menelaus' series in New York and London, signaling an ambitious start to its independent journey.
The evolution of VeneKlasen Gallery signifies a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to the art world. By embracing new leadership and expanding its artistic vision, the gallery is not only adapting to the contemporary art landscape but also actively shaping its future, fostering creativity and providing a vibrant platform for established and emerging artists.