Stanford Fine Art
Founded by Stanford Mabry in 1987, Stanford Fine Art specializes in American and European paintings, sculpture, and works on paper from the 19th century to the present. Known for its museum-quality presentation, diverse inventory, and approachable philosophy, the gallery serves collectors at every stage—from first-time buyers to seasoned connoisseurs. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, it has earned a reputation as the Southeast’s premier source for historical, Impressionistic, and regional art. Works from the gallery have entered major museum collections and have been exhibited at prestigious institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the National Gallery in London, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Personalized service, expert scholarship, and long-term client relationships define the gallery’s approach.
Stanford Contemporary
In 2020, Stanford Fine Art expanded with the launch of Stanford Contemporary, a gallery focused on modern and contemporary art. Directed by Nashville native Elena Graves, who holds advanced degrees in art history and English education, Stanford Contemporary bridges the gap between early 20th-century movements and contemporary expressions. The gallery features a variety of media—painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and design—with a focus on movements from modernism to post-war and contemporary art. Situated adjacent to Stanford Fine Art in Nashville, this space offers collectors an opportunity to engage with living artists and new ideas.
A Legacy of Fine Art in Nashville
Stanford Mabry’s path in the arts was profoundly shaped by his early experience at Southwestern Company, where he met Spencer Hays—an influential mentor and avid collector. Stanford worked summers selling books door-to-door during college, where he grew close to Spencer and his wife Marlene. Their passion for Impressionist and modern art inspired Stanford’s lifelong journey in the art world. The Hays’ remarkable collection of nearly 600 works, including pieces by Pierre Bonnard, Edouard Vuillard, Amedeo Modigliani, and Claude Monet, was eventually donated to the Musée d’Orsay, underscoring their belief that art should be accessible to all.
Philosophy
Stanford Fine Art maintains a focus on American and French Impressionism—an era that revolutionized light, color, and subject matter—and explores its connections to modern and contemporary art. Through Stanford Contemporary, the gallery highlights the continued evolution of those ideas, offering a curated dialogue between historical and contemporary works. This dual vision gives collectors a comprehensive and meaningful experience rooted in connoisseurship, innovation, and a deep respect for artistic legacy.
