Woodward Gallery

John and Kristine Woodward opened their gallery in 1994 and moved it to the current space in downtown Manhattan in 2007. The gallery presents works by famous artists such as Warhol and Rauschenberg, as well as newcomers who deserve a ticket into the contemporary art scene. Every year, the gallery holds between five and 10 exhibitions, all interesting.

It's not surprising, given how the gallery promotes new talents, that so many young artists want to catch the attention of its curators. The collection is fantastic. Look out for female artists, of which there are many here: Sybil Gibson, who's been compared to Matisse and Renoir; the expressive and yet reserved Sarah Hauser; the graffiti artist Lady Pink; and Margaret Morrison, who creates colorful portraits of dolls and children.

FYI: The gift shop sells a wide variety of art objects, from silk ties to vinyl sculptures.

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