Art Titans Unite: The Launch of Pace Di Donna Schrader Galleries

Introduction to PDS: A New Era in Art Galleries

The art world is undergoing seismic shifts as three distinguished figures, Pace Gallery, Emmanuel Di Donna, and David Schrader of Sotheby's, unite to establish a groundbreaking venture: Pace Di Donna Schrader Galleries (PDS). Announced on December 1, 2025, this new entity is not just another gallery; it's a strategic response to the evolving economics of art.

“There are no great, great secondary galleries anymore,” states Marc Glimcher, CEO of Pace, acknowledging the pressing need for evolution in the art market.

Understanding the Market Dynamics

Current market conditions are pressuring galleries to adapt or face closure. With rising operational costs and shrinking profit margins, traditional galleries are merging and shifting online. PDS aims to carve out a niche by focusing on secondary market sales—specifically, selling artwork that has previously been owned, which offers unique opportunities for collectors.

By establishing its Upper East Side location, PDS aims to attract both seasoned collectors and new entrants to the art world. The collective expertise of Glimcher, Di Donna, and Schrader promises to offer strength and a fresh approach. As Glimcher aptly puts it, “The art business is desperately in need of evolution.”

The Vision Behind the Collaboration

The visionaries behind this initiative believe that collaboration, rather than competition, is key to thriving in today's market. Di Donna, who has built his reputation on Surrealist and Modern art, highlights the necessity of sharing resources and networks:

“Being able to share ideas and collaborate with like-minded people is important.”

Expanding Resources and Relationships

PDS's ability to leverage Pace's established global reach is a significant advantage. With locations in major cities like Los Angeles, London, and Geneva, they plan to tap into Pace's rich relationships with artists and estates dating back 65 years. This historical context not only enhances their market credibility but also opens doors to unique offerings.

Strategic Launch Timeline

PDS plans to commence operations in early 2026 and will introduce its physical space by summer 2026. The gallery will debut with a historical exhibition planned for the fall, although details remain undisclosed.

The Role of David Schrader

DavID Schrader's involvement adds a layer of credibility and industry knowledge, particularly in establishing secondary market platforms. His past experience in finance at J.P. Morgan Chase brings a nuanced perspective to the business's economic viability. Speaking on the shift from Sotheby's to PDS, he expressed a desire for autonomy:

“I want to do something in my next chapter where I'm my own boss.”

A Broader Vision for the Art Market

Schrader describes PDS as a “one-stop shopping” destination catering to a range of artistic tastes—from Impressionism to contemporary art. In a market that often leans towards the contemporary, the new gallery will prioritize preserving the expertise of historical art dealers. Glimcher emphasizes this point:

“Where are the dealers with the great knowledge of Impressionism? Early Modernism? There's only a few of us.”

Conclusion

The formation of Pace Di Donna Schrader Galleries signifies more than just a new business venture; it represents an adaptive strategy in a challenging market landscape. As art collectors and enthusiasts, we should keenly observe how this innovative collaboration unfolds. The integration of experience and strategy under the PDS banner could set a new standard in the art world, demonstrating that unity among art industry leaders can indeed foster resilience and growth.