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Sponder Gallery Celebrates Alex Katz with Dual Exhibitions in Palm Beach County

By Gabriel Delgado

Palm Beach County, March 2025

In the heart of Palm Beach County, where the art world finds a refined and discerning audience, one gallery has long stood as a beacon of cultural sophistication—Sponder Gallery. A second-generation, family-run institution, Sponder Gallery has played an integral role in shaping the contemporary art landscape in South Florida. Originally founded by Elaine Baker, the gallery is now helmed by her daughter, Deborah Sponder, alongside Beverly Cuyler and Cristin Longo, who continue to uphold its legacy of excellence.

This March, Sponder Gallery is making an unprecedented move, showcasing the work of internationally renowned artist Alex Katz in two concurrent locations—a testament to both the gallery’s influence and Katz’s enduring legacy in contemporary art. The two major exhibitions, one at The Boca Raton Tower at The Boca Raton resort and the other at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, will highlight the artist’s signature minimalist aesthetic. 

For over seven decades, Alex Katz has remained a defining figure in contemporary art, recognized for his large-scale portraits, striking color palettes, and a refined, minimalist approach that strips away excess to reveal the essence of his subjects. Katz’s work transcends time, capturing fleeting moments—whether in the serene expressions of his muses, the golden glow of a summer sunset, or the stark silhouettes of winter trees. His ability to blend figuration with abstraction has influenced generations of artists, making his presence in Palm Beach County a significant cultural moment.

Sponder Gallery’s dedication to Katz is evident in the thoughtful curation of these exhibitions. At The Boca Raton Tower at The Boca Raton Resort, guests will encounter a sleek, contemporary presentation of Katz’s most iconic portraiture—his celebrated depictions of women with cool gazes and crisp outlines, painted with an economy of detail that speaks volumes. Meanwhile, the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens will offer a more immersive experience with "Alex Katz: Portraits and Landscapes Through the Seasons," opening March 19, 2025. This exhibition juxtaposes Katz’s portraits with his deeply atmospheric landscapes, creating a dialogue between human presence and nature’s rhythms.

Sponder Gallery’s deep-rooted history in Palm Beach County has positioned it as a leading force in contemporary art. The gallery has evolved under Deborah Sponder’s leadership, expanding its international reach while maintaining a strong local presence. “The beauty of what we do at Sponder Gallery,” says Deborah, “is not just about bringing internationally acclaimed artists to Palm Beach but also about fostering meaningful collaborations that enhance the cultural fabric of our community.”

One such collaboration is with the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, a partnership that exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between fine art and historical preservation. “Ann Norton’s vision was to create a sanctuary for art and nature to coexist,” explains Cristin Longo “Bringing Alex Katz’s work into this environment is a perfect fit—his serene yet powerful imagery enhances the contemplative atmosphere of the gardens.”

This alignment between Sponder Gallery and Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens is more than a single exhibition—it’s a shared commitment to elevating the arts in Palm Beach County. With Katz’s exhibitions spanning across multiple venues, Sponder Gallery not only honors a contemporary master but also underscores its own enduring impact as a cultural cornerstone in South Florida.

With its bold vision, deep-rooted history, and dedication to bringing world-class art to Palm Beach County, Sponder Gallery continues to push the boundaries of what a contemporary gallery can achieve. The March 2025 exhibitions of Alex Katz at The Boca Raton and the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens represent an ambitious and exciting moment for the region’s art scene.

For art lovers, collectors, and cultural enthusiasts, these are must-see events that celebrate both a legendary artist and a gallery that has, for decades, been a guiding force in Palm Beach County’s vibrant art world.

For more information on the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens Alex Katz: Portraits and Landscapes Through the Seasons can be found on the ANSG website at: https://ansg.org/exhibitions-2024-2025/#katz_a

For more information on the Alex Katz exhibition at the Boca Raton Tower on the gallery’s website at: https://www.spondergallery.com/exhibition/109/