Mary Lynn Buchanan
- StudioPeel
- Jan 30
- 3 min read
Discovering a New Side of Art:
How Mary Lynn Buchanan’s Gallery Tours Changed My Perspective
When the world paused and we couldn’t visit galleries, I stumbled upon Mary Lynn Buchanan’s YouTube channel, and it turned out to be a silver lining in those strange days. Her virtual gallery tours became my escape—and, surprisingly, a guide to uncovering art gems right in my hometown of London.
I’ve always enjoyed visiting and exploring art galleries, but like many, I’d fallen into a comfortable routine of visiting the usual big-name galleries and exhibitions. Don’t get me wrong, seeing iconic pieces by leading artists was incredible, but I didn’t realize how much I was missing until Buchanan introduced me to smaller, often private galleries that were slightly off the beaten path.
Her videos sparked a desire to break out of my art-viewing rut. Inspired by her tours, I started seeking out these hidden spots myself, uncovering a whole new side of London’s art scene. It’s been an adventure, and I owe it all to Buchanan’s keen eye and infectious passion for the art world.
Why Mary Lynn Buchanan Stands Out
What sets Buchanan apart is her well-rounded perspective on the contemporary art world. Her YouTube channel, blog, and Instagram cover a mix of galleries, museums, and art fairs across major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Paris, and, of course, London.
Buchanan’s content is more than just surface-level snapshots of exhibitions—it’s thoughtful, insightful, and deeply engaging. She doesn’t just showcase the art; she helps you understand it. Whether it’s a deep dive into Helen Frankenthaler’s work at Gagosian or Rachel Kneebone’s striking sculptures at White Cube, Buchanan’s reviews feel like a personal tour with a friend who just happens to know everything about the art world.
All images above copyright Mary Lynn Buchanan
Her website isn't updated as much as her IG account but worth visiting!
Championing Diversity in Art
One of my favorite things about her blog is her commitment to highlighting diverse voices. Her list of "100 Contemporary Female Artists You Need to Know" is a must-read, introducing artists like Ebecho Muslimova, famed for her quirky "Fatebe" character, and Elsa Sahal, whose biomorphic ceramic sculptures are both thought-provoking and mesmerizing.
Buchanan’s focus on female artists feels especially timely, giving overdue recognition to creators who are often overshadowed in the broader art conversation.
Bridging Art and Accessibility
For those new to contemporary art or unsure where to start, Buchanan’s content is a treasure trove. Her Instagram serves up quick, digestible snapshots that tease the more detailed analysis found on her blog.
She also isn’t afraid to dive into bigger conversations about the art world, like the rise of NFT art or the recent Tribeca Gallery boom. These pieces not only keep her audience informed but also spark conversations about where the art world is headed.
How Mary Lynn Buchanan Inspired Me
Watching Buchanan’s tours inspired me to rediscover my city’s art scene with fresh eyes. I’ve since ventured into smaller galleries I never knew existed, discovering incredible works and meeting passionate curators along the way. It reminded me that art isn’t just about the familiar - it’s about exploring the unknown and finding beauty in unexpected places.
So, if you’re looking to break out of your art rut or simply want to see the art world through a new lens, check out Mary Lynn Buchanan. Her content is proof that even in a digital age, art can feel personal, inspiring, and wonderfully human.
