On October 31, 1969, a group of independent artists joined to form the Bowery Gallery. The gallery has been in continuous operation ever since and is one of the oldest in New York City. The gallery is incorporated as a nonprofit organization of representational and nonrepresentational artists. Exhibitions at the Bowery Gallery have received notice in The New York Times, Arts, Art in America, Vogue, The New Criterion and The New Republic. A national competition, sponsored by the gallery has been juried by such notable artists as Nell Blaine, Louis Finkelstein, Lois Dodd, Rosemary Beck, Natalie Charkow, Jane Freilicher, Gabriel Laderman, William Bailey, Joan Snyder and Janet Fish.

The Bowery Gallery is a cooperative gallery. Our mission is to exhibit quality work by independent artists. In 2006-2007 season, dues for full member is $120 per month for 12 months with an initial membership fee of $500 (payable by arrangement with the treasurer). Everyone participates by sitting at the desk about one day per month (paid sitters available), attending meetings, voting and performing gallery jobs. All members have solo exhibitions every 2 1/2 to 3 years and participate in one or more group shows per year. While members are responsible for the printing and mailing announcements as well as refreshments for receptions, there are no commissions on sales.

New members are selected in periodic reviews of applicants' original work. Because of the importance of the active engagement of members, the gallery is currently considering only applicants living within 100 miles of New York City for working memberships, including attending meetings. Invitational slots in June and July are offered to artists from outside the area who reside in the U.S. Please note the gallery does not exhibit photography or digital art.

The Bowery Gallery is a cooperative gallery, wholly run by artist members.