News Summary
Clearing gallery, known for its influential role in the art scene, has announced the closure of its locations in Manhattan and Los Angeles after 14 years of operation. Founder Olivier Babin cited insurmountable challenges such as rising costs and declining revenues as reasons for the shutdown. Despite previously hosting over 200 exhibitions and showcasing renowned artists, the gallery struggled to adapt to the shifting art market. Babin plans to pursue an independent career in the art world after the closure and reflects on the gallery’s legacy of innovative art presentations.
New York – Influential art gallery Clearing has announced the closure of its locations in Manhattan and Los Angeles after 14 years of operation. Founder Olivier Babin confirmed the decision on August 7, stating that the gallery “saw no viable path forward” and that it would cease operations immediately. Babin plans to return the keys to the gallery’s three-storey New York space the following day.
The closure comes amidst mounting challenges for the gallery, including increased overhead costs from rent, shipping, and art fairs, combined with declining revenues. The decision to close follows a series of unsuccessful attempts to turn the business around. Babin likened the situation to “resurrecting a corpse,” highlighting the futility of trying to revitalize a struggling gallery.
Founded in 2011 in Bushwick, Brooklyn, during a vibrant gallery scene, Clearing initially gained recognition for adventurous exhibitions that were metaphorically held together “with tape and rubber bands.” Babin, who moved to the United States from France in 2009, started his journey as an artist before establishing Clearing.
Over its 14-year span, Clearing hosted over 200 exhibitions, showcasing prominent artists such as Harold Ancart, Calvin Marcus, and Korakrit Arunanondchai. The gallery expanded its footprint, opening a Brussels location in 2012 and a Los Angeles venue in 2020. However, the New York location’s move from Bushwick to the Bowery in 2023 proved detrimental, with Babin acknowledging that taking on higher rent during a slowing art market was a gamble that did not pay off.
Adding to the challenges faced by Clearing was the split of its Brussels location last year, where former director Lodovico Corsini now operates it independently. Despite this, Clearing managed to host its final exhibitions, featuring solo shows for artists Henry Curchod in Los Angeles and Coco Young in New York. Additionally, a pop-up exhibition called Maison Clearing was organized in Basel, Switzerland, in June, showcasing works from 46 artists.
The closure of Clearing contributes to a recent trend of gallery shutdowns in the United States, with notable closures including Kasmin and Venus Over Manhattan. Babin has stated he does not intend to take a position as a sales director at another gallery, opting instead to pursue an independent career in the art world. He also plans to embark on a spiritual journey to the Amazon.
Babin has expressed regret regarding some decisions made about the gallery’s direction but emphasized the collective achievements of the gallery’s artists, teams, and supporters. As Clearing concludes its operations, it leaves behind a legacy of innovative art presentations and significant contributions to contemporary art.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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- Hyperallergic: Kasmin and Clearing Galleries Announce Closures
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