Westwood Gallery

Established in 1995 by James Cavello and Margarite Almeida, Westwood Gallery NYC has developed a reputation for reintroducing overlooked artists into the narrative of art history. From its earliest days, the gallery gave photography a prominent role within its program, recognizing the medium’s unique ability to capture both cultural history and artistic innovation. Through exhibitions and estate management, Westwood has built a photography collection that reflects its mission of rediscovery and preservation.

Among the most notable aspects of the gallery’s work is its stewardship of the estate of Roy Schatt, the acclaimed photographer best known for his portraits of James Dean and other cultural figures of the mid-20th century. Schatt’s work embodies the intersection of celebrity, vulnerability, and artistry, and the gallery has played a vital role in ensuring his photography remains accessible to new generations. In addition, the gallery manages the estate of Lazhar Mansouri, whose images preserve Algerian cultural identity through portraiture, adding a rich international dimension to the photography collection.

The gallery has also presented comprehensive surveys of photographers whose contributions had been underappreciated, positioning their work alongside painting and sculpture to highlight photography’s equal significance in the broader field of contemporary and historic art. By bringing archival materials and rare prints into the public eye, Westwood Gallery has not only expanded its collection but has also deepened the understanding of photography’s role in shaping visual culture.

As the gallery continues its work from its Bowery location, photography remains central to its exhibitions and collaborations. With artists represented in the permanent collections of major institutions worldwide, the photography collection curated and preserved by Westwood Gallery NYC underscores its commitment to elevating overlooked voices. This dedication ensures that photography remains both a historical document and a living, evolving art form within the gallery’s mission.