William Campbell Gallery Celebrates 50 Years
by Jessica Fuentes November 14, 2024
Click here for the original article on Glasstire’s website.
William Campbell Gallery, Fort Worth’s longest-running gallery, is celebrating its 50-year anniversary this weekend with a new exhibition featuring artists it has represented over the years.
Founded in November 1974 by Bill and Pam Campbell, the gallery has seen many changes over the past five decades. Originally named Gallery One Frames, the inaugural space was located at 4715 Camp Bowie Boulevard for the first seven years. When the gallery moved into its current space on Byers Avenue, it took on the new name and separated out the framing business in a small space behind the gallery.
In 2020, the Campbells announced their retirement and sold the gallery to the Fort Worth Contemporary Art Partners, which at the time included Jadz Pate, Clayton Snodgrass, Tim Locke, Peeler Howell, and J.W. Wilson. In 2022, William Campbell Gallery opened a second location on Foch Street, three miles east of its Byers space and closer to Fort Worth’s downtown. Mr. Peeler Howell served as the Gallery Manager from 2017 to 2022, when Anne Kelly Lewis was named as the new director. In May 2024, Mrs. Lewis stepped down from her role and Misty Locke was named Managing Partner and Gallery Director.
Over the last few years, other changes have come about, including a shift in leadership with the Fort Worth Contemporary Art Partners now including Tim and Misty Locke, Clayton Snodgrass, and J.W. and Andrea Wilson. More recently, the gallery’s Foch Street location has also expanded. The footprint of the space was 2,500 square feet, with another business occupying part of the building. Recently, the gallery had the opportunity to expand, taking over the full 6,000-square-foot building.
The 50th Anniversary show celebrates the gallery’s long history by highlighting more than 50 artists, past and present, that it has represented. The majority of the works in the exhibition were either newly created for this milestone or have not been previously shown at the gallery.
Ms. Locke told Glasstire, “Celebrating William Campbell Gallery’s 50th anniversary as a cornerstone institution in Fort Worth is truly remarkable. As we build upon the visionary legacy that Bill and Pam Campbell established, we remain committed not only to preserving it but expanding it. Our goal is to champion our artists while welcoming new voices that enrich our gallery’s offerings. By embracing diverse talent and pioneering innovative art, we aim to elevate the conversation around contemporary art in Fort Worth, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.”
The exhibition opens Saturday, November 16, with a reception from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will be on view through December 21. Learn more about the gallery and exhibition at William Campbell Gallery’s website.