Farewell to Clearing Gallery: Reflecting on 14 Years of Innovation and Artistic Vision in New York
After 14 influential years, Clearing Gallery has announced its closure of both its New York and Los Angeles locations, marking the end of an era for this artist-run space known for nurturing emerging talent and championing bold, intellectually rigorous programming. Founded in 2011 by artist-turned-gallerist Olivier Babin, Clearing quickly gained repute as a hothouse for new talent, helping launch the careers of artists such as Korakrit Arunanondchai, Harold Ancart, and Marguerite Humeau.
Clearing began humbly in a Brooklyn Bushwick studio, reflecting Babin’s vision of creating a gallery that prioritizes art over spectacle. The expansion to Brussels in 2012 and Los Angeles in 2020, followed by a move to a three-story Bowery location in New York in 2023, demonstrated its growing influence. However, rising operational costs — especially the high rent and shipping expenses aggravated by a slowing art market — made sustaining the gallery’s ambitious programming financially unfeasible. Babin openly expressed on social media that there was “no viable path forward” to maintain the gallery’s commitment to artists and community.
More detailed coverage about this poignant closure appeared on platforms like Artsy, which highlighted Clearing’s 14-year impact on the contemporary art scene, along with insights from Artnet News and ArtNews. These sources emphasize Clearing’s role not merely as a commercial venue, but a curated platform fostering serious yet playful explorations of art and culture.
Clearing’s programming was distinguished by seasonally themed exhibitions with enigmatic titles encouraging deep contemplation. This approach reflected Babin’s background as an artist and his resistance to transforming Clearing into a large commercial institution. Instead, the gallery remained committed to showcasing emerging and mid-career artists, maintaining a modest but critical presence. Their infamous “Maison Clearing” pop-up at Art Basel Basel in 2025, featuring 46 artists, encapsulated the gallery’s innovative spirit and willingness to take risks.
The legacy of Clearing is embodied in the careers of artists like Coco Young and Henry Curchod, who closed the New York and Los Angeles chapters of the gallery respectively this summer. The brutal economic realities facing galleries—rising overhead and shifting collector habits—are not unique to Clearing, as contemporaries such as BLUM, Venus Over Manhattan, and Kasmin have also closed recently, indicating a broader trend in the market.
Despite the physical gallery closures, Clearing’s influence persists. The Brussels location, now independent and directed by former Clearing director Lodovico Corsini, continues to uphold the gallery’s ethos and artistic mission across the Atlantic. This continuation helps preserve the distinct vision that made Clearing a vital force in contemporary art.
For those interested in exploring Clearing’s groundbreaking exhibitions and the artists it championed, abundant information and images of their final shows can be found through Artsy’s editorial, Artnet’s in-depth reports, and ArtNews’s feature stories. These resources celebrate Clearing’s unique contribution to the art world and provide a comprehensive overview of its trajectory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why is Clearing Gallery closing after 14 years?
Clearing’s closure is mainly due to rising operational costs, including steep rent and shipping fees, coupled with a slowdown in the art market, making it unsustainable to maintain its vision and quality.
Q2: Which notable artists were supported by Clearing Gallery?
Clearing helped launch and nurture artists such as Korakrit Arunanondchai, Marguerite Humeau, Harold Ancart, Coco Young, and Henry Curchod.
Q3: Did Clearing Gallery operate outside New York?
Yes, Clearing expanded to Brussels in 2012 and Los Angeles in 2020. The Brussels branch now operates independently, continuing the gallery’s legacy.
Q4: What made Clearing Gallery stand out in the contemporary art world?
Its artist-led ethos, thoughtful programming with intellectual rigor, risk-taking approach, and commitment to emerging artists distinguished Clearing from many commercial galleries.
Q5: Are there plans to commemorate Clearing’s contributions?
While no official retrospectives have been announced, many in the art community recognize the importance of Clearing’s 14-year run and anticipate exhibitions or documentaries honoring its impact.
Q6: Where can I find images or information about Clearing Gallery’s final exhibitions?
Detailed articles, reviews, and exhibition images are available through Artsy, Artnet News, and ArtNews, which document the gallery’s history and closing moments.
The closure of Clearing Gallery reminds us of the fragility yet vibrancy of independent art spaces. Though the physical venues will shutter, the seeds sown by Clearing in its artists’ careers and innovative programming will continue to influence and inspire.