Davis Orton Gallery

From 2009 to 2024, the Davis Orton Gallery was a vital part of Hudson, New York’s vibrant arts scene, nestled on the storied Warren Street—an architectural treasure known for its antique shops, galleries, and cultural energy. Founded and run by Karen Davis and Mark Orton, the gallery became a respected space for contemporary photography, mixed media, and both trade and artist-published photobooks.

The gallery was dedicated to showcasing a broad spectrum of artists, from emerging voices to mid-career and established creators, emphasizing work that pushed boundaries and explored meaningful narratives. Its commitment to photography as both fine art and a form of personal storytelling was evident in its curated exhibitions and photobook presentations.

Karen Davis, the gallery’s curator, brought deep expertise to the role. An accomplished photographer and educator, she has taught portfolio development at esteemed institutions like the Radcliffe Institute and Griffin Museum of Photography. Her work is included in several notable collections, such as the Center for Photography at Woodstock and the Lishui Museum of Photography in China. As an artist and curator, Karen has contributed to numerous national exhibitions and has been a portfolio reviewer for events such as Photolucida, FotoFest, and Critical Mass.

Mark Orton, a consultant and business coach, was the behind-the-scenes force ensuring the gallery's smooth operation. His multimedia skills supported artists in expanding their reach into digital platforms, further bridging traditional and modern presentation methods.

Together, Karen and Mark also created collaborative, limited-edition photobooks that blended humor, critique, and personal narrative, including the satirical “Pretension, All About Us.”

Though the physical gallery has now closed, the legacy of the Davis Orton Gallery lives on through the artists it supported, the conversations it sparked, and the vibrant creative community it helped cultivate.