In honor of the occasion, the G. R. N’Namdi Gallery granted me an interview, which you can find below.
Interior of George R. N'Namdi Gallery, Chicago
Courtesy of George R. N'Namdi Gallery
Les Amis: Please describe the gallery and its mission.
G. R. N’Namdi Gallery: George N'Namdi, who holds a doctorate in psychology, correlated positive mental health with art appreciation and living with art through his research and practice as a clinical psychologist. This was a significant factor in the foundation of the G.R. N'Namdi Gallery in 1981, whose mission is to encourage collectors to develop an appreciation for the historical value of the arts, while increasing awareness of abstract art and inspiring a new generation of art collectors. The father-son-operated gallery exhibits at its locations in Chicago, Detroit and New York, and through partnerships and collaborations with universities, museums and organizations internationally.
Les Amis: How do you select the artists that you represent?
G. R. N’Namdi Gallery: We select the artists that we feel are making a contribution to the arts. In other words, artists who have a unique voice that adds to the "literature" of arts.
Les Amis: What inspired you select Beauford Delaney as one of the artists whose work you represent?
G. R. N’Namdi Gallery: Because of his contributions, pushing of the envelope, he's an originator. His works have elements of originality.
Untitled
Beauford Delaney
(1965) Oil on canvas
Courtesy of George N'Namdi Gallery
Les Amis: Where/how did you acquire your Delaneys? Private acquisitions? Auction?
G. R. N’Namdi Gallery: We've acquired Delaneys in different ways, mostly by purchases from his estate and private collectors.
Les Amis: Is his work popular among your clients?
G. R. N’Namdi Gallery: He is known, particularly among serious collectors. He work is still growing in awareness.
Les Amis: You recently held an event whose purpose was to educate people on how to purchase art. How would you advise someone who wanted to become a collector of Delaneys?
G. R. N’Namdi Gallery: First, research him. Then, find one that you like, that is always the first step. Also, you find one that fits into your vision as a collector.
Les Amis: Please talk about the film that you are creating on African-American artists around the world. How will Beauford figure into this film?
G. R. N’Namdi Gallery: Yes, Beauford is featured in the documentary film, Art Legacy Abroad: In Search of the Light, http://www.artlegacyabroad.com/. While in Paris, we filmed one of his former homes, and he was mentioned by several of the artists in their interviews during the film.
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