Renowned photographer James Katsipis has announced his new representation with VFA Gallery in the heart of Soho in New York City. Marking this exciting new partnership, Katsipis will unveil his debut solo exhibition and show with the gallery entitled “Adrift,” on August 14, from 4 to 6 PM for a VIP collectors’ reception and 6 to 8 PM for the exhibition grand opening at VFA Gallery’s Soho location at 151 Wooster Street.
The exhibition will present three of James’ most famed series – Mermaids of Montauk, Blurz, and the analogue series Graintauk, all drawn from his expansive and celebrated body of work. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the depth and emotion of Katsipis’ work up close. “Adrift” will be on view through September 9.
In “Adrift,” Katsipis presents three distinct series that each pay homage to Montauk, the place that shaped his artistic vision.
“I chose my Mermaids of Montauk, Blurz, and my analogue series Graintauk because first and foremost, I wanted to showcase my love for my hometown, Montauk. Montauk has many moods. It can be dark and mysterious like my Mermaids, and it can also be vibrant and full of life like my Blurz. Montauk is also a blast from the past — it still feels retro, stuck in the ’70s — so the vintage look of my analogue series, Graintauk, complements that feeling so well. For me, Montauk is mostly a mood, not just a place,” said Katsipis.
The Montauk and Manhattan-based artist, James Katsipis, is widely recognized for his exceptional ocean photography and striking visual narratives. Born and raised in Montauk, Katsipis developed an enduring connection to the sea, which has remained a central theme throughout his career. For over two decades, he has traveled the globe as an adventure and surf photographer, capturing the energy and atmosphere of distant shores.
“This is the culmination of 25 years of my work. It’s not just an opening — it’s my life, art, passion, achievements, and failures all mixed into one. I’m inviting everyone not only to the exhibition but into my home,” said Katsipis.
“I’m excited to bring James’s work from the East End to the heart of New York City. His eye is uniquely local, but his impact is universal. James captures Montauk with reverence. His imagery gives us a sense of place that’s current, vulnerable, and iconic. He’s building a visual record that’s as timeless as it is contemporary,” said Zac Presley, Founder & Curator of VFA Gallery.