A New Era in Contemporary Art. Valerie Carberry Appointed GRAY Gallery CEO. Photo: Weston Wells.

Valerie Carberry is appointed CEO of GRAY Gallery, marking a bold step in leadership and contemporary art representation.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

NEW YORK, NY— GRAY has officially named Valerie Carberry as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, signaling a pivotal moment in the gallery’s legacy. Carberry, who has served as a partner since 2015, will now lead the gallery into a new era. This transition comes as Paul Gray, former Director, moves into the role of Chairman.

Carberry’s Vision for GRAY’s Future

As CEO, Carberry will oversee all aspects of GRAY’s operations. Her leadership will span programming direction, institutional partnerships, and new artist relationships. This appointment reinforces GRAY’s dedication to championing 20th- and 21st-century art.

“This is a moment of profound continuity and transformation,” Carberry stated. She emphasized her commitment to uphold GRAY’s legacy while pushing the gallery into the future. With a clear vision, she aims to expand artist representation and enhance client engagement across markets.

Paul Gray’s Continued Influence as Chairman

Paul Gray, who joined the gallery in 1982 and became Director in 1996, continues to shape the gallery’s mission. As Chairman, he will focus on strategic leadership, long-term goals, and client relationships. His confidence in Carberry reflects years of shared leadership and mutual success.

“I look to our future with pride, optimism, and humility,” Gray shared. He praised Carberry’s impact over the past decade, crediting her for much of GRAY’s growth and stability in both Chicago and New York.

Legacy of GRAY: A Gallery with Global Impact

Founded in 1963 by Richard Gray (1928–2018), GRAY has played a pioneering role in modern and contemporary art. The gallery has showcased legendary names like Pablo Picasso, Roy Lichtenstein, Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning, and Jean Dubuffet.

Today, the gallery works closely with a diverse roster of living artists and estates, including:

• Alex Katz
• Torkwase Dyson
• Theaster Gates
• David Hockney
• Rashid Johnson
• Jaume Plensa
• Judy Ledgerwood
• McArthur Binion
• Leon Polk Smith
• Evelyn Statsinger

Each artist represents a distinct voice and vision that contributes to GRAY’s unique standing in the art world.

Unwavering Commitment to Artists and Collectors

GRAY remains a global leader in artistic development and collection building. With locations in Chicago and New York, the gallery offers a platform for exceptional art and expert advisory services for private and institutional collectors.

For over six decades, GRAY has brought ambitious exhibitions to life, preserved artistic legacies, and expanded access to museum-quality works. The gallery’s mission centers on meaningful artist collaborations and lasting client relationships.

The Future of GRAY Under Carberry’s Leadership

With Valerie Carberry at the helm, GRAY is positioned to reach new heights. Her leadership style, grounded in collaboration and strategic vision, will guide the gallery’s evolving mission. As the art world continues to change, GRAY’s dedication to excellence remains a constant.

The transition reflects not only continuity but also opportunity. Carberry’s appointment marks a bold new era for GRAY, one that honors its past while fully embracing the future.

Valerie Carberry becomes CEO of GRAY Gallery, reinforcing the gallery’s commitment to artists, collectors, and innovation.