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Monday, 25 May 2009 | Levent OZLER
Magen H. Gallery Opens New Space with Work by Contemporary American & Iconic French Artists
New Venue Designed by Architect Alan Wanzenberg
Hugues and April Magen debuted their new space, Magen H. Gallery, at 54 East 11th Street, with a significant exhibition of sculpture, furniture, and ceramics by contemporary American designers and by the iconic 20th-century French masters for which the gallery is well known. The current exhibit showcases work by Forrest Myers, Terence Main, Howard Meister, François Stahly, and Pierre Szekely, offering visitors an in-depth look and an abbreviated preview of upcoming shows.
"What's exciting about the new space is that it allows us a flexibility we did not have before and increases our ability to enhance and forward the design conversation in the decorative arts. This show represents a well-crafted, deeply philosophical human exploration, contributing to the art world as a whole," says April Magen.
Designed by leading New York architect Alan Wanzenberg, the new space doubles Magen H. Gallery's exhibit area. With his emphasis on authenticity, craftsmanship, and design focus, the internationally prominent Wanzenberg, who has earned numerous awards, was the ideal architect to create the Magens' new space.
The launch reflects Hugues and April Magen's optimistic outlook, based upon their gallery's continuing success and economic strength. "Our ability to expand in these uncertain times is due to one simple idea," says April Magen. "Remain integral towards a vision and fundamental belief in a work of art. Rather than follow ephemeral design trends and the 'It' artists of the moment, we take a more curatorial approach and maintain a strong point of view. This assures that the objects we represent are of lasting inherent value."
From its inception, the gallery's premise has been that art and design are allied and interdependent. By synthesizing modern and mid-century design, Magen H. Gallery, the leading source for pieces by pre-eminent French post-war designers, continues to redefine the decorative arts market with significant, pioneering works. "We enjoy taking risks, expanding our perspective, and recognizing the importance of investing in the future of decorative arts as a whole," April Magen notes. Both professional dancers prior to becoming collectors and gallerists, April and Hugues Magen view each exhibition as a finely choreographed presentation of physical forms and an opportunity to push the boundaries of expression in art and design.
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