Frieze 2023
What if art fairs, biennials did not exist, we would probably have to invent them but why?
The art world is complex unregulated conceptual mechanism that is an umbrella term that hides the fact that it is a multi dimensional universe that conceals where the power actually is. And its not with anyone who actually makes art, the artists. The focus of this article is on British art and artists.
FAME AND FAMOUS
Of course there are artist players, like Hirst who swaggers around with the confidence of a multi millionaire, but to be fare, he always swaggered. His influence in the British art world is wide ranging and positive.
In British terms both Hirst and Banksy have cornered the market in public facing are personas. Although Banksy is reclusive and secretive, Hirst is out-going, out-spoken, but he demonstrates that fame in the art world does not translate into poplar culture the way that Tracy Emin, Grayson Perry and Anthony Gormley have manage to do.
You cant see Banksy or Hirst being offered a gong, nor can you imagine that they would accept. To be part of popular culture in Britain is too learn how to play the game, to accept where you are in the pecking order and not be out spoken in any real sense.
Since 2003 Frieze has become an essential part of the art world calendar, it muscled in on the few conventional art fairs like ART Basel which has been operating since the 1970’s.
But what is interesting is the the ‘circus’ of the art fairs have become the staple for the art world to rehearse, test the water, create discussion, but of course its main purpose is to be a platform for commercial galleries to make money.
Its important to understand the difference from art fairs, and Biennials. A bienalle was invented to embellish a city of country the origin in the big national exhibitions of trade that were a feature of the 19th Century when the imperialist states needed or wanted to show off the accomplishment of colonialism.
The Art Fairs origin probably comes from the carnivals that spread across Europe but are a feature of most communities world wide. But also from the idea of festivals which are usually invented by enthusiasts who are involved in the activity as either players or promoters. In fact Art Basel began by three Basel Gallerists in 1970.
In 2024 we will incorporate Frieze and other art fairs and biennials to give an analysis not only of the purpose of the art fair/ biennial history, but also reviews and viewpoints of the art as well.
Art fairs and biennials continue to evolve into essential platforms for artists, curators, and collectors alike, shaping the dynamic landscape of contemporary art in significant ways. Upcoming events are expected to emerge in various global cities around the world, each reflecting their distinct local cultural contexts while also addressing vital universal themes that resonate with diverse audiences. Major art fairs such as Art Basel and Frieze promise to draw considerable international attention from art enthusiasts and professionals, while esteemed biennials like the Venice Biennale and Whitney Biennial serve as critical venues for showcasing innovative works and fostering meaningful dialogues among participants. As the art world becomes increasingly interconnected in today's global society, these noteworthy events will likely spotlight emerging voices and facilitate new collaborations, unveiling exciting directions in which the conversation around contemporary art is headed next. Aim
Venice Agendas director Terry Smith introduces a new direction, to incorporate art fairs and other Biennials into the agenda.
Photography: Chelsey Borwne
FOOTFALL Frieze London 2023 Part of our ongoing look at styles and attitudes of art fairs and Biennials
IN FOCUS
Ingleby Gallery at Frieze London 2023
The Richard Ingleby Gallery has been operating out of Edinburgh since 1998. Over the years, it has secured a reputation as one of the country’s leading private galleries, renowned for the quality of its exhibitions and publications. The gallery represents artists of international standing, whilst also introducing and supporting artists at earlier stages in their career.
The work in Frieze this year represents artist who they have worked with for over a decade. David Austen is none foremost as a painter but he is actually better described as a picture maker.
He has been photographing in parallel along side his painting practice and it is clear that both disciplines inform each other.
The photography work has extended into film and video and although not widely seen offer further insights into his practice.
