About

Gallery 78 is located in the vibrant and historic city of Fredericton, New Brunswick, at 796 Queen Street — in a beautiful Queen Anne Revival home along the banks of the Wolastoq (Saint John River).

Gallery 78 front entrance

Our Story

Gallery 78 was founded in 1976 by James and Inge Pataki — two artists and dreamers who arrived in Fredericton from Europe in 1970 and fell in love with the city and its creative spirit. James was a classical musician and a member of the celebrated Brunswick String Quartet, while Inge was a practicing painter with a deep passion for the visual arts. Together, they shared a vision: to create a space where art could be discovered, celebrated, and brought into everyday life.

The gallery began humbly and beautifully — in their home on Brunswick Street. What started as a gathering place for artists and art lovers grew, year by year, into one of Atlantic Canada's most respected private galleries. Today, Gallery 78 holds the distinction of being the oldest private art gallery in New Brunswick, a legacy built on trust, passion, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

A Family Legacy

Fifty years on, the Pataki family's dedication to the arts endures. Three generations of the family have carried on James and Inge's founding vision, ensuring that Gallery 78 remains a living, breathing part of Fredericton's cultural fabric. The gallery has been featured in the Telegraph-Journal for the remarkable story of the three generations behind its success — a testament to the family's deep roots in this community.

That same warmth and personal touch that James and Inge brought to their home on Brunswick Street lives on at 796 Queen Street. Visitors often remark that stepping into Gallery 78 feels less like entering a gallery and more like being welcomed into a home — because, in many ways, it still is.

Milestones & Legacy

  • 1970 — James and Inge Pataki arrive in Fredericton from Europe, drawn by the city's culture and community.
  • 1976 — Gallery 78 is founded in the Pataki family home on Brunswick Street.
  • 796 Queen Street — The gallery moves to its current home, a stunning Queen Anne Revival residence along the Wolastoq (Saint John River).
  • 50 Years — Half a century of representing emerging and established Atlantic Canadian artists.
  • Three Generations — The Pataki family continues to steward the gallery's mission and values.
  • Telegraph-Journal Feature — Celebrated for the remarkable multigenerational story behind the gallery's success.

Our Mission

Galleries should be enjoyable, comfortable, and inspiring places to visit. Gallery 78 is renowned for its exceptional service, warm hospitality, high-quality art selection, expert advice, honesty, and integrity. Since 1976, private, public, and corporate clients have trusted us to help build their art collections and beautify their spaces. We serve a clientele of corporate, private, and public collectors across Canada and abroad — always with the belief that the right piece of art can transform a space and enrich a life.

We are proud to have spent 50 years championing Atlantic Canadian artists — emerging voices and established masters alike — and to have played a meaningful role in the cultural life of Fredericton and New Brunswick. Let us help you discover the perfect piece for your space!

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