Michael McGraw, a prominent figure in the design public relations world, is opening a new gallery called Dernier Cri on New York's Upper East Side. The space debuts on January 29, 2026, with an exhibition titled "Night Shift," featuring sculptural works by artists including Julian Mayor, Casey Johnson, Todd Marshard, Jessie Nelson, and Marit Harte, all rendered in a single black palette. McGraw, who has spent years shaping narratives for design studios and brands, describes the gallery as a physical extension of his work as a design publicist, aiming to showcase compelling art and design that inspires interior designers.
The opening of Dernier Cri represents a notable crossover from the design PR industry into the gallery world, reflecting how professionals with deep editorial and curatorial instincts are increasingly launching physical spaces. By focusing on a tightly curated, monochromatic group show, McGraw emphasizes a distinctive point of view that bridges art, design, and interior decoration. The gallery's name, borrowed from a historic 1960s men's fashion boutique, underscores its mission to present the "latest thing" while also evoking a darker, more romantic undertone, positioning Dernier Cri as a fresh player in New York's competitive gallery scene.