NEW YORK—The Christie’s-owned Haunch of Venison opens its New York branch on September 12 with “Abstract Expressionism—A World Elsewhere,” an ambitious show of more than 50 iconic works, none of which is for sale. “We thought an elegant way to announce our presence was to invite a distinguished curator like David Anfam to take a fresh look at quintessentially American subject matter,” says Robert Fitzpatrick, international managing director of the gallery, which also has locations in Berlin, London and Zurich.

Among the pieces displayed are Willem de Kooning?s textured-bronze sculpture Hostess, 1973; Franz Kline?s abstract oil Vawdavitch, 1955; and Barnett Newman?s fluid oil Moment, 1946. Works were contributed by private collectors—although not, we’re told, by François Pinault?and such institutions as the Tate Modern, in London; New York’s Museum of Modern Art; and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, where Fitzpatrick formerly served as director.

The minimalist Steven Learner?designed space—with views of Rockefeller Center’s office tower—presents “a constant interplay with the city,” notes Fitzpatrick, who hopes to inaugurate a new exhibition experience. “There seems to be a [gallery] rule that says, ‘Keep moving.’ We say, ‘Sit a moment.  Look.’”

"American Perspective" originally appeared in the September 2008 issue of Art+Auction. For a complete list of articles from this issue available on ARTINFO, see Art+Auction's September 2008 Table of Contents.