Our brick-and-mortar gallery at 622 Warren Street in Hudson has been offering the white cube viewing experience for over 30 years.  Clean white walls (more or less), consistent, even lighting in a unique albeit neutral setting; the space takes on the personality of the artwork being exhibited.  Each piece stands alone on an otherwise blank wall, providing a moment to observe with minimal distraction.  
That said, one of the major highlights of my position in the gallery is the opportunity to visit an artist in their world; to descend on their workspace which is often located in or adjacent to their home.  To see, breathe, and fully experience the many iterations of an artist’s aesthetic in a context of both functionality or fantasy is one of my greatest pleasures.
 

Few viewing rooms can rival the home and studio of David Halliday.  The beautiful brick house he has called home for the past decade was built in the late 1790s, and is perched on a sloping hill directly across the street from the Hudson River in Schodack Landing.  Being ushered in his back door and through the kitchen, I immediately recognize vessels, furniture and odd fishing nets that have often been the subjects of his still life photographs.  The personality of this nearly 250 year old house has somehow merged with David’s – or was it the other way around?  They are symbiotic in terms of influence and scripting the narratives that play out in Halliday's exquisite photographs.

One rainy, drizzly Sunday afternoon, we invited some friends and art lovers to take the drive up 9J to also share in this rare opportunity to experience David’s work within this unique context.  Complete with oysters flown in from his beloved Nantucket, sandwiches from Talbot & Arding, baked treats from Verdegris, and dulcet jazz from Miles Taylour and bassist, Max Lieberman– this was an afternoon to remember.  You may want to inquire to find out how you can join next time….