Anya Tish Gallery first opened in 1996, initially located at 1740 Sunset Boulevard. This intimate space quickly became a haven for Houston's art community, showcasing diverse and thought-provoking contemporary artwork by artists from Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Russia. It was the first time a Houston art gallery exhibited such an extensive collection of Eastern European artists. Over the years, the gallery became a cornerstone of Houston's cultural landscape, known for its commitment to fostering both emerging and established artists alike.
In 2005, the gallery relocated to 4411 Montrose Boulevard in Houston’s bustling Museum District, expanding its scope to include video art, light sculpture, installation art, and larger-format paintings and sculptures. The gallery’s global approach emphasizes works that address relevant social and environmental issues, showcasing the talent of artists from around the world. The gallery quickly earned acclaim for its groundbreaking contemporary art exhibitions, with works being acquired by significant private, public, museum, and institutional collections. These works have also been featured in prestigious publications such as Art in America, Artforum, Glasstire, Paper City, Arts&Culture Texas, Houston CityBook, New American Paintings, and The New York Times, amongst many more publications.
Anya Tish Gallery continues to exhibit a variety of mediums, all linked by a strong correlation between concept and material. The gallery’s professional relationships with contemporary museums across the United States, Europe, and Russia have enabled it to consistently promote innovative artists and nurture the best talent from the new generation of artists worldwide. Anya's keen eye for talent and dedication to nurturing artists helped launch numerous careers, and her gallery served as a vibrant hub where art enthusiasts and collectors gathered to experience cutting-edge exhibitions.
Beloved gallery owner Anya Tish passed away on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, in Krakow, Poland, with her husband Mark, of over 50 years, by her side. Anya’s legacy and the gallery will continue under the leadership of Director Dawn Ohmer, whose vision was honed through five years of working alongside Tish.