New York’s Kasmin to Close; Olney Gleason to Rise from Its Ashes
157Aug. 7, 2025
Kasmin, the noted gallery founded by the late Paul Kasmin in 1989, is closing after thirty-five years in business. Two of its principal staff—Nicholas Olney, who joined Kasmin in 2007 and rose to become its president in 2020, and Eric Gleason, a senior director there since 2013—will establish a new gallery, called Olney Gleason. Slated to open this fall, the new operation will represent a variety of artists and estates that were previously part of the Kasmin roster. Details regarding the gallery’s flagship location, inaugural exhibitions, and leadership will be announced in September.“Eric and I are passionately optimistic about the future of our industry,” said Olney in a statement. “We’re driven by our unwavering belief in artists and an ethos of excellence, integrity, and cooperation that’s shared by our core team. As we move forward, we want to express heartfelt gratitude to Kasmin’s founder, the late Paul Kasmin, and to everyone who has contributed to the story of the gallery over the years—our dedicated colleagues, the incredible artists we’ve had the privilege to represent, and the collectors and collaborators who’ve helped shape our program. We carry these shared experiences forward with immense appreciation and excitement for what’s to come.” Gleason also thanked his former colleagues in a statement, noting, “It’s time to look ahead, building on what we’re proud to have already forged. This is an unprecedented moment of opportunity in the art world, with the focus rapidly shifting back to thoughtful programming and an artist-centric model.” Kasmin launched in SoHo before moving to Chelsea in 1999, eventually expanding to include three spaces there. Paul Kasmin died in 2020. The decision to wind down his gallery, which for the time being will maintain its offices at 509 West Twenty-Seventh Street, was made in close collaboration with his estate. “While we’re sad that this chapter is coming to a close, I’m grateful to Nick, Eric, and the entire team for all they’ve done to build an amazing organization alongside Paul, and for their dedication to honoring his legacy over the past five years,” said Paul Kasmin’s daughter Olivia in a statement. “I appreciate the team’s commitment to a smooth transition, and I’m confident that Paul would be happy that the spirit of the gallery will continue. We wish Nick and Eric all the best in this exciting new chapter.” Related Studio Museum in Harlem Announces Opening Date Manifesta Reveals Location for 2028 Edition