About the Gallery
Founded in October 2009 by owner Curtiss Jacobs, the gallery originally operated under the name Renaissance Fine Art (RFA), serving as a tribute to his late father, the esteemed painter Joseph David Jacobs. Playing a pivotal role in its inception, curator Paula Coleman provided invaluable strategic guidance as the founding director.
In 2016, the gallery underwent a rebranding, adopting the name Curtiss Jacobs Gallery. Since then, it has showcased a diverse array of 21st-century artworks from emerging, mid-career, and established artists. The exhibited pieces span various mediums, including sculptures, paintings, drawings, multimedia, and photography, mostly influenced by the rich tapestry of the African Diaspora. Additionally, selected works offer compelling perspectives on contemporary global issues.
Throughout the year, the gallery hosts approximately eight exhibitions and has participated in major art fairs. Leveraging strategic partnerships with artists, organizations like Project Art, the Laundromat Project, Harlem School of the Arts and dedicated art enthusiasts, we aim to advocate for, promote, and provide enriching opportunities for both the Harlem community and the broader visual arts community.
Over the years, Curtiss Jacobs Gallery has served as a vibrant creative hub, featuring solo and group exhibitions by a diverse roster of artists. Notable names include the late Jack H. White, Diane Smith, Shaunte Gates, Moses Zibor, Jordan Baker Caldwell, Cedric Smith, Massimo Licata, Jay West, Dawn Okoro, Adama Delphine Fawundu, Tony Peralta, Massimo Licata and Ousmane Gueye. We have also had the privilege of hosting guest curators such as Deb Willis and Dr. Liz Andrews.
At Curtiss Jacobs Gallery, we believe in the transformative power of art to inspire and connect people. Our mission is to provide a platform for artists to share their unique visions with the world, fostering dialogue, understanding, and appreciation for the diverse expressions of human creativity.
The Founder
Curtiss Jacobs, a dedicated advocate in both the arts and business worlds, is the author of the insightful book "Demystifying Corporate America." Born in Savannah, Georgia, and a lifelong New Yorker, Curtiss boasts an impressive three-decade career in financial services, having held senior global leadership roles at prestigious institutions such as AIG, Bank of America, and Citigroup. His expertise in developing and implementing transformative strategies has driven global growth and efficiency. Before his corporate ascent, Curtiss was a successful fashion and celebrity photographer, working under the tutelage of iconic photographers Richard Avedon and Annie Leibovitz. In 2009, he channeled his creative vision into founding the Renaissance Fine Art of Harlem, now the Curtiss Jacobs Gallery, dedicated to providing exhibition opportunities to underserved communities.
Curtiss's leadership extends beyond his professional achievements. As a passionate advocate for social change and community empowerment, he mentors and coaches individuals, guiding them to realize their potential and fostering growth and prosperity. His commitment to service is evident through his board memberships with organizations like 100 Black Men of America, World of Money, and Project Art, where he supports and partners with corporate sponsors to drive impactful solutions in underserved communities, both locally and globally. Curtiss, who holds degrees from Adelphi University and Northeastern University, is also a sought-after public speaker on topics such as career navigation, leadership, managing parallel careers, and corporate creativity. Living in New York City, Curtiss continues to inspire and lead, making a significant impact on both the corporate world and the arts community.