Main Street Business

In an interview in 2015, Neal Rosenthal told Main Street his story of building a successful importing and wine distribution business. Now he and Kerry Madigan, long-time business and personal partners, have started a new business in the heart of Millerton, NY. I interviewed Neal and Kerry and Michael Flower, gallery director, on a sunny afternoon in November to discover their plans for this expanding venture.

What compelled you to start an art gallery at the stoplight on Route 22 in Millerton?

Initially our plan was to exhibit Kerry’s photographs as she transitioned from managing our wine business, and the gallery has grown in scope from there. The modern, bright space with big windows makes it an ideal exhibition space, and the presence of an art gallery greatly improves the entrance to Millerton. Since moving here 30 years ago we have loved this community as it has changed. It is still discovering itself and remains a little funky and rough around the edges but has a strong sense of community.

The gallery opened in mid 2023 featuring Kerry’s photography portfolio, but we quickly decided to expand the project by curating works from other artists in a variety of media while always showing Kerry’s work. We have been approached by many artists, some from the local region, as we develop the aesthetic that will create a distinct identity for Mad Rose Gallery. But we have integrated into our program work from artists well beyond the local landscape, including the photography of a group of New York City-based artists working in the post World War II era and new photographic and painting talents whose studios are in the city. A personal project of ours in Africa produced a show of work from seven artists based in the West African countries of Benin and Togo. Our goal is to continue to expand our outreach to include work from a large swath of cultures that will enrich the environment at the gallery and bring new voices to the consciousness of our growing following.

Each exhibit is accompanied by an interview with the artist and/or a discussion about the artist and the work to explore the influences upon and the aesthetic inspiration behind the works. These gatherings are an extension of our “In Conversation at 10 Grand” series, which we hold at our Brooklyn headquarters throughout the year. Guest speakers have included Wynton Marsalis, Adam Gopnik of The New Yorker, and Eli Zabar, food impresario (and good friend!). 

Now you’re renovating the building next door. What’s going on?

We were able to buy the building when the previous owner, a clothing brand, decided not to have a retail presence in Millerton. The building next door at 3 & 5 Main Street has housed many different businesses – clothing, home goods, local produce, crafts. It’s large with lots of wall space, perfect for a gallery and is even set up with a kitchen. 

Upstairs we will create a performance space where we will hold classes on photography, drawing, and other artistic skill sets; as well, the space will be used for talks, seminars, conferences, and community gatherings. Subjects will certainly include food, wine, culture, and travel – a trove of life’s pleasures (and challenges).  

The renovation encompasses the installation of a new heating and cooling system, an upgrade of bathrooms and sanitation facilities, reworking the kitchen, and removing interior walls to create a more open exhibition space.

What is Mad Rose Gallery’s point of view?

Kerry and I would say that our aesthetic is classic and that we are guided by what we like – not necessarily what we think will sell. We are continuing our own learning process and aspire to show significant art. The current extraordinary show of Daniel Jocz: “Ripped, Shredded, and Sprayed,” is a great example of our aspiration. Jocz has been a transformative figure in the art world for more than five decades with works in the collections of prestigious museums in the US and Europe. Our show included sculptures like a gilded modern amphora, dynamic wall art, and even jewelry. 

In early November Jocz shared the stories behind his work in a special artist conversation at the gallery and gave attendees an exclusive chance to engage with the artist. It was an exciting and inclusive gathering that connected everyone through art.

Who are your clients?

Our clients are sourced from our long work and social experiences with a strong coterie of local residents but certainly includes a vibrant mix of people from New York City and well beyond reaching into Europe where we have spent extensive time.

What do you enjoy most about this new endeavor?

One of our joys is going to see artists in their studios and then earning their trust as we put together an exhibition. The gallery has become a great meeting spot for a broad range of people. Here we are surrounded by creative people and a good flow of energy.   Our aim is to inspire, connect and enrich lives by promoting artistic and cultural excellence. •

Mad Rose Gallery is located at 5916 N Elm Ave. in Millerton, NY. To learn more you can call (518) 592-1085 or visit them online at madrosegallery.com.