Ever wondered how a contemporary art gallery thrives by merging with a fine-art press? That’s Gallery 16. It stands as a testament to San Francisco’s vibrant arts scene. Founded in 1993 by Griff Williams, Gallery 16 isn’t just another art space.
Gallery 16 is in the SoMa district. Griff Williams wanted to create a space that stood out. San Francisco already had many non-profit art organizations. Williams, a painter himself, was trained at the San Francisco Art Institute. He uniquely combined his gallery with a fine-art press. This press publishes limited-edition books. It also creates artist portfolios. A biannual book series named One Artist One Concept is a highlight.
The One Artist One Concept series features predominantly West Coast conceptual artists. They create work specifically for the book. This printing aspect supports the gallery’s exhibition program. Williams gives artists freedom from a curatorial standpoint. He allows them the freedom to experiment.
Williams says the freedom Gallery 16 allows is unique. It is rare not just in San Francisco. It is rare in many places. The gallery is not object-driven. It fosters an artist-focused, incubating environment.
Gallery 16 Editions is the gallery’s publishing program. It uses contemporary printmaking to create portfolios and artist books. Publications include Barry Gifford’s Las Quatro Reinas. Also Prince Andrew Romanoff’s The Boy Who Would Be Tsar is part of the publications.
Many artists have exhibited at Gallery 16. These include Graham Gillmore and Tucker Nichols. Also Rex Ray and Alex Zecca have exhibited there. Shaun O’Dell, Josh Jefferson, and Thomas Heinser are among them too. Libby Black, Margaret Kilgallen, Arturo Herrera, and Michelle Grabner have been featured. Mark Grotjahn has also exhibited at Gallery 16. In 2010, Gallery 16 hosted an exhibition on Emigre magazine.
Music plays a big role in Gallery 16’s shows and openings. The gallery supports San Francisco’s eclectic music scene. The area combines music and visual art. This mix attracts many patrons.
Openings at Gallery 16 can be hectic. They prove the gallery’s impact on San Francisco’s art community. Williams emphasizes community. Without the local art scene’s support, it wouldn’t have lasted. Gallery 16 is more than just a gallery. It is a community hub. It is a space for artistic freedom.