Sheila Metzner’s Captivating Photographic Vision Showcased in New York Gallery Exhibition
Sheila Metzner’s photographs are unmistakable. They possess a rare quality, being both completely original and strikingly elegant. For over four decades, she has crafted a diverse body of work that encompasses the genres of fashion, portraiture, still lifes, and landscapes. Metzner’s artistic vision is infused with a painterly aesthetic, blending elements of Mannerism and Modernism to forge a singular style that has become intrinsically linked with the worlds of fashion and decorative arts.
" Sheila Metzner’s photographs are unmistakable — totally original and extremely elegant,"
A new exhibition dedicated to Metzner’s work is opening its doors at the prestigious Staley-Wise Gallery in New York City, offering art enthusiasts and photography aficionados a chance to immerse themselves in her extraordinary talent. The exhibition features a curated selection of photographs, some of which have never been publicly displayed before, alongside works previously featured in her acclaimed retrospective at the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles.
A significant portion of the photographs on display are Fresson prints, a French printing process patented by Metzner. This technique imparts sumptuous tonalities and textures, becoming an indispensable part of her creative practice over the years. This exhibition at Staley-Wise Gallery evokes an atmosphere of style and sophistication, breathing life into Metzner’s subjects with character, drama, and undeniable beauty.
A Life in Photography: From Brooklyn to International Acclaim
Sheila Metzner’s journey into the world of visuals began in Brooklyn, New York, where she was born and raised. She honed her artistic skills at Pratt Institute, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Communications. Following graduation, Metzner made history by breaking barriers as the first female art director at the renowned Doyle Dane Bernach advertising agency.
Since the 1970s, Sheila Metzner’s name has become synonymous with innovation and artistry in the realm of photography. She has received international recognition for her painterly and richly textured fashion and still-life photographs, captivating audiences with her unique vision. Metzner’s mastery extends beyond the gallery walls. Her editorial and commercial works have graced the pages of leading publications and served as iconic visuals for some of the world’s most celebrated brands.
In addition to her dynamic career, Sheila Metzner is also a published author. She has penned five compelling monographs, further solidifying her standing as a prominent figure in the photographic arts. Her works have found permanent homes in prestigious institutions, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Museum of Modern Art, The International Center of Photography, The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, The Chrysler Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago, The J. Paul Getty Museum, and The Brooklyn Museum.
A Retrospective Journey: From Early Influences to Lasting Legacy
In 2023, Sheila Metzner’s work was honored with a solo retrospective exhibition at the esteemed J. Paul Getty Museum. This landmark exhibition provided a comprehensive overview of her multifaceted career, showcasing the evolution and depth of her artistic expression.
The current exhibition at Staley-Wise Gallery builds on this momentum, offering a fresh perspective on Metzner’s enduring legacy. From her earliest explorations of light and form to her more recent explorations of texture and composition, the exhibition traces the development of a truly singular photographic voice.
Invitation to Experience: Sheila Metzner Exhibition Details
Art enthusiasts and photography lovers are invited to experience the magic of Sheila Metzner’s vision firsthand at the Staley-Wise Gallery in New York City. The exhibition runs from December 13, 2024, to February 8, 2025.
An opening reception will be held on December 12, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offering guests an opportunity to engage with the artist’s work and mingle with fellow art appreciators.
Sheila Metzner
December 13, 2024 – February 8, 2025
Staley-Wise Gallery
100 Crosby Street
New York, NY 10012
www.staleywise.com
Opening Reception
December 12, 2024 6-8 PM
