Gallery Paule Anglim

Easily one of the most important galleries in San Francisco.

Yes, you have to go up a flight of stairs, and there are no huge picture windows from the street that advertise the art. You have to seek it out. However, it is worth the search. Gallery Paule Anglim is an inspiring place for those who have art in their soul or who want to have art in their soul and are willing to expend some effort in that pursuit. The gallery does not take itself lightly, but properly so: most artists who exhibit here are internationally recognized, yet the space also encourages exciting new talent. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful about the works shown as well as the artists. You could call Paule herself an institution in the San Francisco art community, but she is so much more than that. This gallery has had personal relationships with world-​shakers like DeFeo, Bourgeois, Terry Allen, Bruce Conner. Which reminds me that it is refreshing to find a gallery that has supported so many women artists. You may find the gallery gives off a cool, conceptual and intellectual vibe, but there is a deep heart there too. It may take several visits to appreciate fully that the gallery space contains so many wonders even beyond the art on display at that particular moment.

Unilocal haters need to shut up. «You have to climb at least twenty steps up to make it to the gallery.» OH NO, STAIRS! I guess if you’re judging an art gallery by the amount of stairs they have… Personally I judge galleries on the quality of the art. And Paule Anglim is top notch. RESPECT!

I actually thought we had a fine relationship with the gallery after I’d bought a quite high end piece there some years ago. I even had it sent back to be displayed for a show only to encounter some of the rudest staff I’d ever experienced. But I ignored it: I figured it was just what happens when you deal with over-​privileged art-​boys in a third rate art market like San Fran (I don’t remember the kid’s name but he had long hair and a look of disdain that was as unearned as it was priceless). But after I collected my piece and attempted to stay in touch with the gallery managers – I actually wanted to donate something and buy more art – it was clear that I was being ignored. Funny, that: considering that I was wanting to spend more money with them (they do have some serious work coming through there). But I just think that when you have spent good money with a gallery and make it clear that you are an ongoing customer, you should be treated with a little more respect and attention. That’s why I give them one star. Buyers on the West Coast are a small but valuable community. Treat us well!

I don’t think I’ll return to this gallery seeing that there are many other better ones on the same block. I don’t believe it’s elevator accessible. You’ll have to climb at least twenty steps up to make it to the gallery. The art is just okay. Not even that much to look at once you finally make it. Artwork is expressionist-​concept art within the mediums of sculpture and painting. Only intend on buying something if you’re wearing a top hat and monocle.

One of the more interesting galleries in the City. Paule Anglim exhibits conceptual and thought-​provoking works from such artists as Louise Bourgeois, Enrique Chagoya, David Ireland, Paul Kos, John Roloff, and Barry McGee.
Many of the artists are already in museums and major collections or on their way.