Lubov Gallery Leadership Assumed by New Owners
Mode Bonafilia and Kristen Wasik have taken over the Chinatown gallery following the death of its founder.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Fine Art
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Mode Bonafilia and Kristen Wasik have assumed ownership of the Lubov gallery in New York City. The transition follows the death of founder Francisco Correa Cordero, who passed away in August 2026.
Why it matters
The new owners aim to keep the gallery operational because they view it as an essential cultural venue in New York City. Their leadership ensures the space remains available amidst a scarcity of independent art galleries in the area.
Founded in 2016, the Chinatown-based gallery was led by Francisco Correa Cordero until his death at age 37 in August 2026. The gallery is currently preparing for a solo exhibition featuring Michael Hafftka.
The players
Mode Bonafilia
She served as the director of community programming and education at Lubov before assuming ownership.
Kristen Wasik
She previously worked as a director at the Lubov gallery between 2023 and 2024.
Francisco Correa Cordero
He was the founder of the Lubov gallery in 2016 and passed away in August 2026 at age 37.
Michael Hafftka
He is an artist whose solo exhibition is scheduled to open at the gallery in October 2026.
The details
Mode Bonafilia, who served as director of community programming and education since 2025, and Kristen Wasik, who worked as a director at the gallery from 2023 to 2024, announced their new roles via Instagram. The space will continue to operate with a scheduled solo show for Michael Hafftka opening on October 24, 2026.
Timeline
Francisco Correa Cordero founded the gallery in 2016.
Kristen Wasik served as a director at the gallery between 2023 and 2024.
Mode Bonafilia joined as community programming director in 2025.
Founder Francisco Correa Cordero died in August 2026.
The Michael Hafftka exhibition is scheduled to open on October 24, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The transition reflects the ongoing struggle for independent venues to survive within the crowded New York City art landscape. By assuming control, the new owners are directly addressing the scarcity of exhibition spaces by ensuring the gallery maintains its operations.
The transition ensures that the gallery remains open for public engagement, including upcoming exhibitions. Visitors can access the space for the scheduled Michael Hafftka show starting in late October.
The takeaway
Small, independent galleries often rely on deeply committed leadership to maintain their presence in competitive urban markets. Supporting these venues ensures that community-focused programming and local art exhibitions continue to reach the public.
Further reading
For more on the local art scene, visit New York City Fine Art.
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Should independent local art galleries be preserved when their original founders pass away?
