Lisson Gallery Crosses the Border

Next month, Lisson Gallery, a 44-year blue-chip stalwart on the London scene, will open its first international venue, in riot-free Milan, Italy. In a press release, founding director Nicholas Logsdail cites the gallery's strong connection to Italian collectors and museums, as well as the city's central European location and rising profile, as among the reasons Lisson decided to open the new gallery.

The new space on via Zenale will host four to five exhibitions per year. The Milan premiere will be a group show organized by Lisson artist Ryan Gander. "I know about creative block and I know not to call it by name" will include 10 artists from Lisson's stable, including Gander, along with Cory Arcangel, Allora & Calzadilla, and Lawrence Weiner. Other artists on Lisson's high-powered roster include Marina Abramovic, Ai Weiwei, Angela de la Cruz and Rodney Graham.

Helming the new space will be director Annette Hoffmann, who worked at Lisson from 1998 to 2006 and is returning to full-time status after consulting with the gallery for several years.

RIght: Nicholas Logsdail.