GALLERY 851

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GALLERY 851 OPENS IN HISTORIC SPRINGS WITH INAUGURAL GROUP EXHIBITION OUT OF THE WOODS

A new artist-run exhibition and studio space takes root in a 1956 industrial building long woven into the East End’s Abstract Expressionist legacy

EAST HAMPTON, NY – JUNE 18, 2026

Gallery 851 opens in the historic district of Springs with Out of the Woods, an inaugural group exhibition curated by founder Alexander Reinwald. The show will be on view July 2 through July 20, with an opening reception on Thursday, July 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. The public is welcome.

Out of the Woods brings together nine artists: Christian Little, Chuck Manion, Mica Marder, Hildy Maze, Kate Salke, Jonathan Shlafer, Aurelio Torres, JJ Veronis, and Nick Weber.

Gallery 851 is an independent, artist-run exhibition and studio space in the historic district of Springs, NY. Presenting contemporary art with a focus on both the maker and their work. Programming will include group and solo exhibitions by emerging, mid-career and established artists, as well as features of historically significant artists, in cooperation with representative estates.

851 will also feature Artists talks, film previews, technical demonstrations, and creative workshops with a focus on materials, process, design, and execution.

The building itself is located at 851 Springs Fireplace Road and has been a community beacon for artists over many decades. From its purpose-built beginnings, circa 1956, as RT Talmage Plumbing where neighboring artists would congregate, to the 20 year tenure of The Fireplace Project, this industrial space - turned - gallery resonates with the spirit of the inherited legacy of Abstract Expressionism that emerged in the 1940s/50s when NYC based artists migrated to the East End in search of connection with natural elements and light, embracing the rugged nature of the baymen, and others who worked with their hands. Experimenting outside of the societal constraints and more confined spaces of city life allowed for the development of Abstract Expressionism to became one of the most pivotal moments in art history, characterized by radical departure from tradition, in favor of individual expression and emotional intensity.

“I feel honored to have the opportunity to continue the creative legacy of this community and building, and I look forward to exploring and sharing the possibilities of expression which have yet to be revealed.”

Gallery 851 will be open
Thursday - Sunday 12-6pm or by appointment ABOUT GALLERY 851

Gallery 851 is an independent, artist-run exhibition and studio space in the historic district of Springs, NY. Presenting contemporary art with a focus on both the maker and their work. Programming will include group and solo exhibitions by emerging, mid-career and established artists, as well as features of historically significant artists, in cooperation with representative estates.

For more information, exhibition images, or to arrange a preview – please email info@gallery851.com