OUR FOUNDING STORY

PAUL ZUGER

Raised on a ranch in North Dakota, Zueger's grandparents were Swiss immigrants. His grandmother was an accomplished artist and he admits that his appreciation for fine art may have started with her influence. Before he built a life centered on art, Zueger, was a rodeo cowboy, Cutco businessman, professional poker player and even had a women’s wig business, though not necessarily in that order.

Zueger was always driven by a passion to make his mark in this world and in 1974, he moved to Denver, Colorado in search of the American Dream. He found it when he opened his first gallery in Denver in 1976. Early on in his career, he was known for championing the careers of emerging artists, Zueger has always taken immense pride in supporting and nurturing artist’s growth. By providing a platform for artistic experimentation and creative expression, Zueger has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of numerous talented artists.

Throughout his career, with the unwavering support of his dedicated associates, Zueger has established an empire. As a three generation family firm for over 50 years, AD Galleries has weathered the burgeoning modern art movement of the 1970s; the economic boom of the 1980s; the bust of the early 2000’s; and the skyrocket highs of the 21st-century art world.

AD Galleries is a rare gem in the art industry, as only a mere 4% of galleries that opened in the 1970s have managed to survive to this day on a global scale. AD Galleries is revered as one of the most powerful and influential fine art dealers, and the story is just beginning.

Aspen | Vail | Beaver Creek | Denver | Santa Fe | Scottsdale | Park City

Curating for future generations.

Our Mission

We believe that our galleries are an integral part of the cultural life of a city, representing the heartbeat of the community. As significant intermediaries in the art market, we support emerging and accomplished artists, curate thought-provoking exhibitions to attract collectors, advise esteemed collectors, and manage collections after the death of an artist. Our commitment to excellence and expertise, combined with our entrepreneurial American spirit, ensures that we stay at the forefront of the forever-changing future of the fine art industry and remain as leading destinations for art in the United States.