55 Mercer Street Gallery is an artist-run gallery operated by artists who underwrite the cost of the upkeep of the gallery, select new members, and make all decisions pertaining to the gallery.

The artist-run gallery is a tradition that extends as far back as the 1870s in Paris and has played a significant role in the growth of American art and the diversification of styles. It offers an alternative to the pressures and fashions of the surrounding art world. 

In addition to individual and group shows for members, the gallery offers exhibition opportunities to guest artists, artist groups, and curators.  

 A NY State, 501c-3 not-for-profit, 55 Mercer Street Gallery Artists, Inc. was founded in 1969.   In 2008 the gallery moved to Long Island City, adopting the name M55 Art and in 2012 to the Chelsea Fine Arts District where it shares a space with the Noho Gallery and operates under the moniker Noho M55 Gallery.