A Long Island cultural landmark
Read time 2 minutes 20 seconds
.J. Spoke Art Gallery, a beloved member-owned cooperative and 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, stood proudly at the heart of Huntington, New York, for nearly five decades. Established in 1975, the gallery was born out of a passion for art and a mission to provide local artists with a professional, welcoming space to showcase their work. With a commitment to supporting both emerging and established artists, B.J. Spoke became a thriving hub for creativity and artistic expression.
Sadly, after decades of inspiring the community, B.J. Spoke closed its doors in March 2025. As an artist who had the privilege of exhibiting there multiple times, I feel the loss deeply. During my time at the gallery, I forged lasting friendships with incredible artists like fine art photographer and painter Katherine Criss, daughter of WPA modernist mural painter Francis Criss; fine-art photographer Susan Tiffen; and metal sculptor John A. Bell, to name just a few.
B.J. Spoke’s journey began in Port Washington, NY, in 1975 before relocating to Sea Cliff, NY. In 1980, the gallery expanded its reach by opening Northport Galleries in Northport, NY. The two galleries, bonded by a shared vision, merged in 1990, forming a powerful force in the Long Island art scene. The inaugural show of the newly merged cooperative galleries took place in April 1990, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both spaces.
Over the years, B.J. Spoke became a cultural landmark on Long Island, known for its dynamic exhibitions and dedication to fostering a creative, inclusive community. The gallery was unique in its focus on showcasing local talent, offering artists from Long Island and the greater New York area an opportunity to gain exposure and connect with art lovers.
The gallery’s exhibitions spanned a variety of media—from traditional paintings and sculptures to photography, mixed media, and installations—keeping pace with evolving artistic trends and ensuring its relevance in the ever-changing art world. As a gathering place for artists and enthusiasts alike, the gallery hosted artist talks, poetry readings, workshops, and more, nurturing a sense of community and connection.
As the gallery grew, so did its reputation, drawing visitors from across Long Island and beyond. It became a key contributor to Huntington’s cultural fabric, enhancing the town’s vibrant arts scene. While the gallery has now closed, its impact will continue to be felt for years to come. B.J. Spoke was more than a gallery—it was a cornerstone of Long Island’s artistic history, and its absence leaves a significant void in the region’s cultural landscape.
