In March 2009, John Cleary Gallery Owner and Director Catherine Couturier attended the Association of International Photography Art Dealers fair and was asked by a collector,

“What is your gallery’s specialty?”

“Photography,” she responded.

“Well, I know that,” he said, “but what is your specialization?”

“Good photography,” she replied, smiling.

That’s all there is to it. Because of that simple mission, John Cleary Gallery is now a bastion of excellence with a dedication to the medium in all its forms, showing the best fine art photography in the city of Houston. Artists represented include Elliott Erwitt, Mitch Dobrowner, Maggie Taylor, and Josef Hoflehner, among many others. And the gallery holds an enormous collection of 20th century vintage and later prints by some of the masters of photography, such as Robert Doisneau, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Brett Weston.

Opened in 1996 in its current location on Gallery Row, the gallery has evolved into the premier fine art photography gallery in Houston, due to John Cleary and Catherine Couturier’s passion for the medium, knowledge, and unparalleled honesty as art dealers. Unfortunately, John passed away in February 2008. His greatest wish was that the gallery would continue, realizing that a gaping hole would be left in the Houston art world if it were to close. Catherine continues John’s passion for the gallery, and her philosophy is that it is not her business to “sell” anything to anyone.

“I am here to present work, offer information, and facilitate the patron’s ability to find photography that will enhance his or her life,” she says. “I love meeting first-time collectors who are really excited about a purchase, and I find a lot of joy in tracking down a rare or sold-out piece for a collector with a special request.”

By offering exceptional quality and service and demonstrating a reverence for fine photography, John Cleary Gallery has earned a stellar reputation and a unique place in the local arts community.