The Collection of Paul Gunther: Sold to Benefit the Paul Gunther Fund for Inclusive Public Space
STAIR is proud to offer The Collection of Paul Gunther: Sold to Benefit the Paul Gunther Fund for Inclusive Public Space as a single-owner sequence in Modern & Contemporary Fine Art & Design on November 20, 2025.
Paul Gunther (1956–2022) was a tireless champion of New York City’s public realm, recognizing that its vitality was rooted in the diverse perspectives of artists, architects, and everyday citizens alike. Throughout his career, he held leadership roles at New York–based nonprofit arts organizations including the Gracie Mansion Conservancy, the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art, the New-York Historical Society, and the Municipal Art Society. These platforms allowed him to pursue wide-ranging interests—from safeguarding neglected neoclassical monuments to ensuring that the redevelopment of Times Square preserved its incandescent signage. His lifelong commitment to innovation and preservation is his enduring legacy, visible in the vitality of New York’s shared urban spaces.
That same ecumenical and open-minded approach to the arts shaped his personal collecting. Paul brought to his home the same discerning yet inclusive eye he brought to his professional work. His 10th Street apartment was filled with an eclectic array of art and design—objects spanning countries, styles, and eras. Many were acquired during travels across Europe, Asia, and South America; others were treasured gifts from friends and colleagues such as Henry Geldzahler, former Commissioner of Cultural Affairs for New York City and curator. Together, these works reflect the aesthetic breadth and curiosity that defined him.
Highlights of the collection include works by Nabil Nahas, Mark di Suvero, and David Hockney, as well as a Francesco Clemente print of Henry Geldzahler. The sale of works from the Collection of Paul Gunther offers the opportunity not only to acquire part of his legacy but also to sustain the vision that animated his life.
Proceeds will benefit the Paul Gunther Fund for Inclusive Public Space, administered by The Architectural League of New York. Established in his honor, the Fund will support the annual Paul Gunther Prize for Inclusive Public Space, a $20,000 award given over ten years to support individuals or teams undertaking innovative projects that create, enhance, and preserve inclusive public space in New York City. Inclusive public space—defined as space freely accessible to all, fostering belonging among people of different ages, genders, races, religions, or abilities—is increasingly at risk and urgently in need of investment, in New York City and across the United States. The Fund ensures that promising designers and scholars will have the resources to advance impactful, actionable proposals that strengthen and expand the public realm Paul so passionately defended.
On November 22, Public Sale in Hudson, NY will offer additional Property from the Collection of Paul Gunther: Sold to Benefit the Paul Gunther Fund for Inclusive Public Space in their Falling Into Modern auction. Learn more.
CATALOGUE ONLINE: Friday, November 7
GALLERY PREVIEW:
Friday, November 7: 9am – 5pm
Saturday, November 8: 11am-5pm
Sunday, November 9: Closed
Monday, November 10: 9am – 5pm
Tuesday, November 11: 9am – 5pm
Wednesday, November 12: 9am – 5pm
Thursday, November 13: 9am – 5pm
Friday, November 14: 9am – 5pm
Saturday, November 15: 11am-5pm
Sunday, November 16: Closed
Monday, November 17: 9am – 5pm
Tuesday, November 18: 9am – 5pm
Wednesday, November 19: 9am – 5pm