ABOUT AVANT-ART
After years of experience in the art industry, we recognized the need to expand and create a new space that could accommodate the growing demand for contemporary art in our community. Our decision to open the gallery was driven by our passion for showcasing innovative, boundary-pushing art that aims to challenge and inspire viewers.
By opening our gallery, we are able to reach a wider audience and showcase more artists, providing them with a platform to share their work and connect with collectors and art lovers. We also strive to create a welcoming space where visitors can engage with art in new and meaningful ways, fostering a sense of community and connection through the shared experience of art.
Our expansion reflects our commitment to the arts and our belief in the transformative power of contemporary art. We are excited to continue our journey and look forward to sharing our passion for art with even more people in our community and beyond.
ABIGAIL HENNINGSEN HALEY
Owner & Co-Founder
Abigail@Avant-ArtGallery.com
Abigail Haley is an owner and co-founder of Avant-Art, a leading contemporary art gallery in Houston, Texas. With a passion for art and a wealth of experience in the industry, Haley has made a name for herself as a trusted expert in the world of contemporary art.
Haley received her Bachelor's degree in Art History from Texas Christian University, where she discovered her love for the arts and began to develop her expertise. She went on to take classes at the prestigious Sotheby's Institute of Art in New York, where she honed her skills in art history and gained a deeper understanding of the art market.
After completing her studies, Haley gained valuable experience in the industry by working in fine art and collectibles insurance underwriting at Tokio Marine America, as well as at the Modern Art Museum in Fort Worth. It was during this time that she developed a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for art of all kinds.
Haley then went on to work at a leading contemporary gallery in Houston, where she expanded upon her knowledge of the industry and gained invaluable experience in art collecting, managing and promoting exhibitions. Her time at this gallery prepared her for the opportunity to open Christopher Martin Gallery in Houston, which quickly became a leading destination for contemporary art in the city.
Now, as a co-founder and owner of Avant-ART Gallery, Haley is committed to showcasing innovative, thought-provoking contemporary art and fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. Her passion, expertise, and dedication to the arts make her an integral part of the Houston art scene and a trusted voice in the industry.
ALLY ONDARZA
Owner & Co-Founder
Ally@Avant-ArtGallery.com
Ally Ondarza is an owner and co-founder of Avant-Art, a contemporary art gallery in Houston, Texas. She has quickly become a rising star in the art world. Ondarza started as an intern in high school at a leading contemporary gallery in Houston. Upon her graduation from St. Edwards University in Austin with a degree in Communications, she knew her path was in the art world. She was quickly promoted to associate upon her return to the gallery.
Ondarza's skills and passion for the arts were quickly recognized, and she was taken on as director at Christopher Martin Gallery, where she was instrumental in opening their Houston outpost. Her career has been fast-paced and successful, as she has made strong connections throughout the art world and has been recognized for her exceptional skills and dedication.
One of Ondarza's passions is exploring the various art scenes in cities she travels to, as she believes that exposure to different perspectives and styles is essential to staying at the forefront of the industry. She also has a strong love for art fairs, which she believes provide a unique opportunity to connect with artists, collectors, and other industry professionals.
Ondarza has also been actively involved in the Houston art scene, studying the market and identifying the needs of Houston in order to help grow and promote the local arts community. Her dedication to the arts and her commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive community make her an inspiration to artists and art lovers alike.
As a co-founder and owner of Avant-art, Ondarza is committed to showcasing innovative, thought-provoking contemporary art and creating a space where artists and art lovers can come together to connect and engage. Her passion, expertise, and commitment to the arts make her an integral part of the Houston art scene and a rising star in the industry.