Anthony Gallery for Patta Magazine
Words by Chris Danforth
Chicago’s Anthony Gallery is taking its distinctive curatorial vision across the Atlantic with the opening of a new space in Amsterdam. Founded by Isimeme “Easy” Otabor in 2019, Anthony Gallery is known for pairing buzzing and established artists, fostering cross-cultural dialogue, and reflecting Otabor’s personal perspective. Now, Amsterdam has become its second home. More than a gallery, the Amsterdam location aims to be a cultural hub, integrating music, design, and community engagement while connecting local and international artists.
Otabor emphasizes that the gallery’s goal is to foster dialogue with Amsterdam’s creative ecosystem, not impose an outside voice. The launch features a collaborative exhibition by Tony Lewis, whose observational drawings capture human connection, paired with cocktails inspired by his work. Looking ahead to 2026, the gallery will host solo and group exhibitions blending local talent with global voices, creating a space that is both globally connected and locally rooted.
Below, Patta Magazine chats with two of the minds behind the project, Easy Otabor, and supporting the project from Amsterdam multidisciplinary agency Tree Filling Window, Erum Shah.
How did the relationship form between Chicago and Amsterdam?
Erum Shah: I’ve worked with Easy for years, including on Tom Sachs projects. Easy has been thinking about expanding Anthony Gallery to Europe, and Amsterdam felt natural. Both cities are local yet global, with strong communities and a commitment to craft. Amsterdam, like Chicago, brings together music, design, and art in a way that aligns with Anthony Gallery’s values.
Easy Otabor: Amsterdam has long been a crossroads for art and ideas — a place where conversations can take root. There’s a growing energy here around contemporary art, and we wanted to be part of that momentum while also creating a bridge between European and American audiences.
You’re launching with Tony Lewis, tell us how that lined up.
Erum Shah: We wanted a celebratory launch before the program officially kicks off in 2026. Easy has a long-standing relationship with artist Tony Lewis, whose drawings capture hospitality and human connection. He sketches in bars, observing people and spaces, which reflects the spirit of the gallery. The launch exhibition felt like a natural way to bring Amsterdam together while connecting US and European perspectives. Tony also plans to create cocktails to pair with his drawings, creating an interactive and authentic experience.
Easy Otabor: We’ve admired Tony’s practice for years. His ability to use language to address questions of identity and communication feels incredibly relevant right now. When the opportunity arose to collaborate on a new body of work, the timing felt right for it to anchor our opening. It sets the tone for the kind of dialogue we want the gallery to foster
When you select artists to work with, what do you keep in mind?
Erum Shah: Easy pairs new voices with established ones, challenging what fine art can be. He prioritizes cultural crossover and, as a Chicago-born gallerist, includes many Black artists. His roster is distinctive because he creates dialogues between emerging and established artists, for example, pairing an emerging painter with someone like George Condo in a group show.
Easy Otabor: We want to continue to keep working with great artists, but more importantly, great people.
What role do you see the gallery playing in Amsterdam’s community?
Erum Shah: The gallery’s responsibility is to add to the existing cultural ecosystem. We chose Amsterdam because its values - intersection of music, design, art, and local brand culture - align naturally with his vision. The goal is not to impose an international voice but to bring Amsterdam into conversation, pairing local voices with artists from Easy’s global network, including the US, Tokyo, and the African diaspora.
Easy Otabor: We hope to contribute to the ecosystem and culture. That means engaging with artists, curators, and institutions already here, while bringing new voices into the mix. Our goal is to build a space that’s both globally connected and locally grounded—a place for exchange, experimentation, and discovery.
What’s planned for 2026?
Easy Otabor: We have an exciting slate of exhibitions that build on this year’s conversations, some returning collaborators and some new names we’re thrilled to introduce. Beyond the program itself, 2026 will be about deepening relationships: with artists, collectors, and the communities around both galleries. We’re focused on long-term growth, not just expansion.
Are there other ways the gallery will engage with the community?
Erum Shah: We want to redefine what a gallery can be. It will host talks and conversations across culture, curated exhibitions, and events that create community engagement. We’re exploring partnerships with local establishments and other sectors like hospitality and food, so the gallery feels integrated with Amsterdam’s culture. Opening nights and ongoing events should encourage dialogue, participation, and a deeper connection to the city.