Skidmore Contemporary Art

Skidmore Contemporary Art Gallery, now located in the heart of Palm Desert's El Paseo arts district, brings with it a rich history and a refreshing perspective on contemporary art. Originally founded in 1998 in Malibu, the gallery quickly gained a loyal following for its curatorial eye and engaging exhibitions. After fourteen influential years as a key presence at Santa Monica’s Bergamot Station, the gallery made its move to the desert in 2024, continuing its mission to inspire, challenge, and delight art collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Skidmore Contemporary Art is celebrated for its dedication to realist and photorealist painters, but the gallery’s spirit resists strict categorization. Guided by gallery director Lia Skidmore’s evolving vision, the program embraces an eclectic mix of artists who each bring a unique lens to beauty, storytelling, and the visual experience. What unites the collection is a certain vibrancy—an optimism and sophistication that resonates across the diverse works on view.

In addition to its regular exhibitions, the gallery offers comprehensive services to collectors, including personalized art advisory and strategic insights into the art market. These services are designed to support both seasoned collectors and newcomers in acquiring or reselling American Post-War and Contemporary artworks with confidence and discretion.

Skidmore Contemporary Art Gallery stands as more than just a place to view and buy art—it is a space that fosters creativity, connection, and discovery. Whether showcasing emerging talent or established voices, the gallery continues to evolve, reflecting the dynamic nature of the artists it represents and the collectors it serves. Its new home in Palm Desert marks an exciting chapter, inviting visitors to experience a gallery where beauty meets depth, and where art remains as alive and engaging as the people who create and appreciate it.