In 2011, curator Hilary Schaffner, and artist, Ryan Wallace, founded Halsey McKay Gallery with the goal to bring inspired contemporary art to East Hampton, New York. By locating the gallery in East Hampton, Schaffner and Wallace saw a unique opportunity to contribute to the extensive artistic history of the town from William Meritt Chase to the Abstract Expressionists to today’s arts community. Schaffner and Wallace named the gallery Halsey McKay after their respective maternal grandmothers’ maiden names.
From the first exhibition Halsey McKay Gallery has presented an eclectic and experimental range of artists and programming. The gallery features a strong roster of emerging and mid-career artists and currently represents: Glen Baldridge, Timothy Bergstrom, Colby Bird, Ben Blatt, Patrick Brennan, Chris Duncan, Arielle Falk, Elise Ferguson, Rachel Foullon, Ted Gahl, Bryan Graf, Joseph Hart, Matt Kenny, Denise Kupferschmidt, Lauren Luloff, Hilary Pecis, and Matt Rich. Halsey McKay also showcases inventive and exciting group shows including guest curated exhibitions and participates extensively in art fairs. Further emphasizing the gallery’s support of East Hampton’s artistic legacy, the gallery also hosts off-site installations and projects at locations such as the Elaine de Kooning House.
Halsey McKay Gallery is a member of NADA the New Art Dealer’s Alliance.