Kentler International Drawing Space
Kentler International Drawing Space, founded by two artists in 1990, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to bringing contemporary drawings and works on paper to the public by emerging and under-recognized local, national and international artists, and to providing the opportunity to experiment, explore and expand the definition of art in society. Kentler programs: Exhibitions & Events; The Kentler Flatfiles; K.I.D.S. Art Education.
Kentler hosts five to six exhibitions per year, with a focus on four solo shows, a guest-curated Selections from the Kentler Flatfiles, and collaborative installations. Our exhibitions are known for challenging accepted notions of drawing and work on paper by encouraging experimental styles and presentation. Recent exhibitions have included performance drawing, a 100 print scroll installation with sound, animated drawings, large-scale collage drawings, and a chance-curated group show among other nontraditional elements. A number of artists presented their first solo show in New York at Kentler. Each show includes a full-color exhibition brochure with a critical essay, an opening reception, and an Artist’s or Curator’s talk.
The Kentler Flatfiles have been an essential element of Kentler since its founding in 1990. A collection of over 2,000 artworks by over 240 local, national and international artists, this living archive represents the incredible breadth and diversity found in contemporary drawings and works on paper. The Flatfiles Digital Archive, providing full online access to the collection on our website, was awarded an ArtWorks grant by the National Endowment for the Arts in 2015. Flatfile works are held on consignment in Kentler’s showroom and are available to the public for viewing and purchase by appointment. Starting in 2017, the gallery’s front space will “Focus on the Flatfiles” with rotating exhibitions and a curated View File.
K.I.D.S. Art Education is the educational branch of Kentler International Drawing Space. Serving over 1,000 Red Hook youth, families and adults per year, K.I.D.S. workshops offer hands-on exploration, critical dialogue, and empowerment through creative experiences. All programs are based on our exhibitions, bringing participants face-to-face with exciting and innovative artworks from around the world.
