Anita Shapolsky Gallery — Attraction in New York

Ordered a 1959 watercolor on paper from this gallery through Artsy. The owner’s email correspondence was terse and cold, which should have given me a hint about the experience. Would not consider a discount, which is the first time I’m ever had a gallerist me “The price is ‘X,’” and shut down the discussion. I really wanted the piece, so I ignored my instincts and pressed on. She offered to reimburse me for the cost Artsy charged for shipping, which was exorbitant for an infrared watercolor on paper. The work was shipped rolled in a tube, even though it was on heavy paper. A 60+ year old work by a significant artist basically just treated like a cheap poster. It gets worse! No tape was applied to the plastic end caps on the cardboard tube. One end was crushed enough to pop out the end cap, leaving only tissue paper to protect the work on transit. I am weary of gallery owner who treat collectors as if conducting business with them is lower than they care to stoop, but poor handling of vintage art just suggests that this another gallerist interested in money, not art. I noticed most of the work she offers is from artists’ estates, which says a lot. She did enclose a check to reimburse me for the shipping costs as promised, so I appreciate that she kept her word in that regard. Her unprofessionalism, disregard for the well-being of the artwork, and haughty tone ensure that I won’t be doing business...

Anita has a great eye and really knows about art, she is the real deal. Her space reflects her personality, art exhibited in a personal space instead of a...

Local UES gallery with an eclectic selection of lesser known painters...