Frieze Week 2024 in London promises to be a revised focus this year as the fair is reimagined by A Studio Between. Today, we have a streamlined guide to help you make the most of the key events this week!
Frieze 2024
This year Frieze emphasizes emerging galleries by placing the Focus section at the forefront of the fair. Highlights include Dean Sameshima with Soft Opening, presenting erotic dot-to-dot works, Divine Southgate-Smith at Nicoletti, showcasing a mix of sculpture, drawing, and 3D animation, and Charlotte Edey at Ginny on Frederick, featuring a site-specific installation of tapestries and stained glass. Additionally, the Artist-to-Artist initiative returns, where established artists mentor emerging talents—Hurvin Anderson champions Peter Uka, Rashid Johnson selects Rob Davis, and Yinka Shonibare supports Nengi Omuku. A new curated section, Smoke, led by Pablo José Ramírez from the Hammer Museum, focuses on ceramics and clay, emphasizing works that explore indigenous histories.
Frieze Masters 2024
For those who enjoy historical and classical art, Frieze Masters will showcase artworks spanning 6,000 years, featuring everything from Old Masters to significant 20th-century pieces and in many ways it is our favourite fair.
This season the Masters highlights a crucial shift in the way the history of surrealism is being revisited, particularly by centering the contributions of women artists who were often marginalized or overshadowed by their male counterparts. This emphasis on previously overlooked figures like Dora Maar, Baya Mahieddine, and Juliana Seraphim who brought new perspectives to the movement, recognizing their unique voices within surrealism.
Spotlight Section, curated by Valerie Cassel Oliver, delves into under appreciated mid-century art, offering an emotional and reflective experience through historical narratives.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Ruinart's Art Bar: "Conversations with Nature" combines art, nature, and Ruinart champagne for a sensory experience.
- Rita's: Known for American-influenced dishes like Cubano sandwiches and vibrant salads.
- Ham Yard Hotel: Serving classics including coq au vin and seasonal desserts, this is a spot to enjoy comfort food with a gourmet twist.
- Our neighbours at Jikoni will also be present this year serving their delicious Middle Eastern twists.
Satellite Exhibitions & Events:
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Start Art Fair at King's Cross:
- Rick Guest's Holy Relics exhibit explores the cultural significance of objects, reflecting on human behaviour and well-being.
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Mall Galleries:
- Art for All Auction features small-scale figurative works from leading British artists, promoting accessible art that connects communities.
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Chris Levine at Four Seasons Hotel:
- Levine's exhibit will explore identity and cultural heritage through cutting-edge photographic techniques.
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Contemporary African Art Fair 1-54 at Somerset House:
- This fair presents the latest in contemporary African art, a must-see for those interested in innovative and diverse creative expressions from the continent.
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PAD London:
- Held in Berkeley Square, this luxury design fair showcases top-tier interior design and art objects, its always a discovery and many Parisian galleries.
Other Notable Exhibitions:
- Rosie Gibbens at Bow Arts: Known for humorous and insightful performances.
- Kwesi Botchway at French Protestant Church: Curated by Azu Nwagbogu, this show is titled "The Sun Must Come Down."
- The Bomb Factory (Marylebone): "One National Under a Groove" featuring Rana Begum, Oman Youesfzada, Zak Ové, and more.
This week explore London's Art Neighbourhoods:
If you’re not attending the fairs, stroll through Mayfair, Peckham, Soho, Shoreditch or Bethnal Green for gallery visits and pop-up exhibitions.
Whether you're exploring the fairs or just the city, there's no shortage of creativity to enjoy, 2024 will be a memorable year!
