Nestled in the heart of Manhattan’s prestigious art district, Yares Art stands as one of New York’s most distinguished galleries, representing a rich legacy of modern and contemporary art that spans over six decades. Since its establishment, this venerable institution has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American art, particularly in the realms of Color Field painting, Abstract Expressionism, and contemporary minimalism.
Historical Foundation and Evolution
Founded by Dennis Yares, following in the footsteps of his father Leonard Yares who established the original gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona, in 1964, Yares Art has grown to become a powerhouse in the New York art scene. The gallery’s migration to New York City marked a significant expansion of its vision and reach, positioning itself at the epicenter of the global art market.
The gallery’s current location on Fifth Avenue, in close proximity to Central Park and major museums, provides an ideal setting for showcasing its impressive roster of artists. The space’s architectural elegance and superior lighting create an environment that enhances the viewing experience of the masterworks on display.
Artistic Focus and Representation
Yares Art has built its reputation on representing and exhibiting works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. The gallery is particularly noted for its expertise in Color Field painting, with a special emphasis on works by pioneers such as Morris Louis, Kenneth Noland, and Helen Frankenthaler. This focus has established Yares Art as a leading authority in this significant movement of American art history.
The gallery’s commitment to artistic excellence extends beyond Color Field painting to encompass various forms of abstract art and contemporary expression. Some of the notable artists represented by Yares Art include:
- Larry Poons – Known for his dynamic abstract compositions
- John Meyer – Celebrated for his photorealistic landscapes
- Milton Resnick – Recognized for his densely textured abstract expressionist works
- Frank Stella – Famous for his minimalist and post-painterly abstraction
Exhibition Programming and Curatorial Vision
Yares Art maintains an active exhibition schedule that combines historically significant shows with contemporary presentations. The gallery’s programming strategy typically includes:
- Major solo exhibitions of represented artists
- Carefully curated group shows exploring specific themes or movements
- Historical surveys that contextualize important artistic developments
- Special installations and site-specific projects
The gallery’s curatorial approach emphasizes both scholarly rigor and accessibility, making complex artistic movements and ideas comprehensible to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the art world.
Educational Initiatives and Publications
Understanding the importance of art education and documentation, Yares Art regularly produces:
- Comprehensive exhibition catalogs
- Artist monographs
- Educational materials
- Digital content for online platforms
These publications serve as valuable resources for collectors, scholars, and art enthusiasts, contributing to the broader discourse on modern and contemporary art.
Market Position and Collecting Philosophy
Yares Art has established itself as a trusted source for both established collectors and institutions. The gallery’s approach to collecting emphasizes:
- Museum-quality works
- Impeccable provenance
- Historical significance
- Investment value
- Artistic innovation
The gallery’s expertise in the secondary market, particularly in post-war American art, has made it a valuable resource for collectors seeking to build significant collections or institutions looking to enhance their holdings.
Conservation and Authentication
The gallery maintains high standards in artwork conservation and authentication, working with leading experts to ensure the integrity and preservation of the works it handles. This commitment includes:
- Regular condition assessments
- Professional conservation services
- Authentication documentation
- Proper storage and handling protocols
Community Engagement and Cultural Impact
Beyond its commercial activities, Yares Art plays an active role in New York’s cultural landscape through:
- Partnerships with cultural institutions
- Support for art education initiatives
- Participation in art fairs and cultural events
- Hosting lectures and panel discussions
These activities help strengthen the gallery’s position as a cultural hub and contribute to the broader artistic dialogue in New York City.
Digital Presence and Innovation
Recognizing the evolving nature of the art market, Yares Art has embraced digital innovation through:
- A comprehensive online viewing platform
- Virtual exhibitions
- Social media engagement
- Digital archives and documentation
These digital initiatives have expanded the gallery’s reach and accessibility while maintaining its commitment to traditional gallery practices.
Collection Services and Client Relations
The gallery offers comprehensive services to collectors, including:
- Art advisory services
- Collection management
- Installation consultation
- Shipping and handling
- Insurance coordination
These services reflect the gallery’s commitment to building long-term relationships with collectors and ensuring their needs are met with the highest level of professionalism.
Future Vision and Growth
As Yares Art continues to evolve, its commitment to excellence remains unwavering. The gallery’s future plans include:
- Expanding its roster of contemporary artists
- Developing new exhibition concepts
- Strengthening international partnerships
- Enhancing digital capabilities
- Contributing to art historical scholarship
Looking Forward
Yares Art stands as a testament to the enduring value of expertise, integrity, and vision in the art world. As the gallery moves forward, it continues to balance its rich historical legacy with contemporary relevance, maintaining its position as a leading force in the New York art scene.
The gallery’s success lies not only in its impressive inventory and exhibition program but also in its ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining the highest standards of quality and scholarship. As the art world continues to evolve, Yares Art remains committed to its founding principles while embracing new opportunities for growth and innovation.
For anyone interested in modern and contemporary art, whether as a collector, scholar, or enthusiast, Yares Art represents an essential destination in New York’s rich cultural landscape. Its combination of historical depth, contemporary relevance, and professional excellence makes it a unique and valuable resource for the global art community.
As we look to the future, Yares Art continues to set standards for excellence in the art world, maintaining its position as a premier destination for those seeking the finest in modern and contemporary art. Through its unwavering commitment to quality, scholarship, and innovation, the gallery ensures its place as a vital institution in the continuing story of American art.