by Thomas Dimopoulos
Artist and gallery owner Erik Laffer was born on Long Island, raised in Washington County and schooled in Albany, after which he traveled the country selling his cartography paintings. In June 2012, he opened his gallery in Schuylerville to collaborate and represent other artists. The biggest draw of the historic village was its affordability.
Laffer’s first show featured artists from downtown Manhattan, but quickly gravitated to more representing and supporting local artists.
“I learned framing and the representation of other artists. It was amazing to learn how much talent there is. That’s what triggered the idea of having a gallery filled with the works of other artists,” he said.
Five years in, Laffer draws a majority of collectors from a 100-mile radius of the historic village who spend, on average, between $1,400 and $1,800 on a piece of artwork.
He currently represents more than 50 artists, and showcases several works from each artist. New works are placed on exhibit in the gallery main space every four to six weeks, while the rear part of the gallery displays the works of artists who have previously been shown.
“A lot of places don’t have the extra space, so once the show is over, they come down. Here, once the show is over, the artists are still part of the Laffer Gallery,” he said.
Laffer’s goals include increasing the roster of artists he represents as well as opening a sister location and becoming more involved in art consulting. His recent collaboration with Saratoga Hospital which resulted in the hospital’s ICU unit being fitted with the works of artists Laffer represents.
“Connecting artists and collectors, I’m proud of that. The most gratifying thing I do is writing a check to an artist and seeing their work go to someone’s home,” Laffer said.
Contact:
The Laffer Gallery Fine Art & Framing, 96 Broad Street, Schuylerville
(518) 695-3181 // The Laffer Gallery Website