Lisson Gallery Adapts to 2020 Challenges with Online Programs, New Spaces, and Record Sales

Lisson Gallery, established by Nicholas Logsdail in 1967, demonstrated resilience during 2020's disruptions under directors Alex Logsdail and Greg Hilty. The gallery, an early member of the Gallery Climate Coalition launched in October to address environmental issues, had long conducted sales through digital images, easing the transition to remote operations. In May, they initiated an online screening and exhibition program. Despite the cancellation of the physical Frieze art fair in London, Lisson opened a temporary Mayfair space leased until March. They also launched a Hamptons gallery, capitalizing on wealthy New Yorkers relocating during lockdowns, where they set a sales record for Stanley Whitney with an $850,000 painting. Meanwhile, their Shanghai location, opened a year prior, hosted exhibitions for Shirazeh Houshiary and Julian Opie, with Opie initiating several public art projects in the city. The gallery's agility highlights its ability to navigate market shifts while maintaining global presence.