A Fresh Art Exhibition and Trade Event Has Arrived, Operating Out of a Recognizable Vehicle Previously Used in Transportation
In the heart of Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, a unique art phenomenon is taking shape. The U-Haul Gallery and U-Haul Art Fair are redefining the way art is displayed and experienced, moving away from traditional gallery spaces and embracing the unconventional[1][2][3].
These innovative art presentations are based on a novel concept—showcasing artworks inside U-Haul trucks, parked throughout the area[1][2]. This approach challenges the traditional gallery and art fair models by offering a low-cost, accessible alternative to the usually expensive and exclusive venues in Chelsea.
Established in May 2024 by James Sundquist and directed by Jack Chase, U-Haul Gallery is a commercial art gallery located within U-Haul trucks[4]. The mobility of these exhibition spaces allows a broad range of participants—from established galleries to independent curators—to present their works without the high overheads of conventional gallery rentals or art fair booths[2].
The U-Haul Art Fair, scheduled for September, will feature 10 exhibitors, comprising galleries and independent curators[5]. The event will take place concurrently with the Armory Show, running from September 5-7[6]. The U-Haul trucks will be stationed in New York's West Chelsea neighborhood, capitalizing on foot traffic from established galleries and institutions, as well as showcasing art in unconventional areas such as sporting events and public parks[7].
The U-Haul Gallery's trucks are transformed into exhibition spaces using the protective wooden railing found inside each truck, with additional lights run from the power outlet in the dashboard[3]. A hand-stenciled plywood sign with U-Haul Gallery's logo spins on top of the trucks, serving as a beacon for art enthusiasts[8].
The roving model of U-Haul Gallery has become increasingly attractive, given the recent slashing of broker fees and the continued rise in New York rent prices[9]. This innovative approach to art exhibitions fosters a more democratized, flexible, and experimental model for the art world, breaking away from standard white-cube galleries and institutional settings[1][2].
Last fall, U-Haul Gallery staged the pop-up performance "Show of Stolen Goods" by artist Victoria Gill, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of their unique exhibition spaces[8]. The U-Haul Art Fair promises to continue this tradition, offering a fresh and invigorating take on art exhibitions in New York City.
[1] https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/01/arts/design/u-haul-gallery-new-york.html [2] https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/u-haul-gallery-new-york-city-1234586889/ [3] https://hyperallergic.com/651028/u-haul-gallery-art-fair-new-york/ [4] https://www.artnet.com/news/market/u-haul-gallery-founders-interview-3781807 [5] https://www.blouinartinfo.com/news/story/1841078/the-u-haul-art-fair-to-debut-in-new-york-city-this-september [6] https://www.thearmoryshow.com/ [7] https://www.artforum.com/news/id=77248 [8] https://www.artnews.com/art-world/galleries/u-haul-gallery-new-york-city-1234586889/ [9] https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/15/realestate/new-york-city-rent-prices.html
- The U-Haul Gallery, located in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, is transforming the way art is displayed by showcasing artwork inside U-Haul trucks.
- Established in May 2024, the U-Haul Gallery offers a low-cost, accessible alternative for galleries, curators, and artists to present their works, deviating from the high costs of traditional gallery spaces or art fair booths.
- The U-Haul Art Fair, scheduled for September, will feature 10 exhibitors, including galleries and independent curators, and will be held concurrently with the Armory Show.
- U-Haul trucks are converted into mobile exhibition spaces, using the protective wooden railing and power outlet in the dashboard, and can be found in various locations, including near established galleries and unconventional areas such as sporting events and parks.
- The unique approach of the U-Haul Gallery has gained popularity, especially amidst the recent slashing of broker fees and increasing rents in New York City, creating a more democratized, flexible, and experimental art world.
- Artworks within the U-Haul Gallery, such as Victoria Gill's "Show of Stolen Goods," demonstrate the versatility and adaptability of these unconventional exhibition spaces, offering a refreshing and invigorating take on art exhibitions in New York City's art scene.
