October in London once again positioned the city as a world stage for art, as a diverse audience of collectors, curators, and scholars gathered to take in a stimulating array of fairs, auctions, and exhibitions. With autumn’s gentle light framing the city, this month offered a captivating mix of historical reverence and contemporary verve, bringing both art historical gravitas and cutting-edge innovation into play.
Frieze London & Frieze Masters
At the heart of the season, Frieze London and Frieze Masters transformed Regent’s Park into a dynamic showcase for both the avant-garde and the historically significant. Frieze London emphasized the daring and experimental, with standout installations and performances that questioned both medium and message. Themes of sustainability and digital innovation featured prominently, a clear nod to the future. Meanwhile, Frieze Masters provided a fascinating contrast, spotlighting centuries-old masterpieces and creating a bridge across time. For those traversing the fair’s corridors, it was a journey across art history—from Renaissance gems to 20th-century icons like Louise Bourgeois and Agnes Martin—each piece connecting past influences with today’s visual culture.
This year’s edition saw galleries like Gagosian, White Cube, and Hauser & Wirth display curated collections with an infectious urgency, while smaller, independent galleries brought a welcome freshness, elevating the profiles of emerging voices.
PAD London
Nearby, PAD London in Berkeley Square distinguished itself with an impressive array of fine art, collectible design, and decorative arts, each piece seemingly balancing aesthetics with functionality. This year, the selections leaned toward refined elegance, seamlessly blending art with design in a way that felt at once luxurious and distinctly London. For collectors increasingly interested in art for the home, PAD’s curation underscored the idea that art can shape everyday spaces, blurring the line between gallery and living room.
LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair
Following closely, the LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair returned to Berkeley Square from 22–27 October 2024, marking its 50th anniversary. This esteemed fair showcased over 80 exhibitors, offering a rich tapestry of fine art, jewellery, furniture, and antiquities. Notably, Gallery V presented Monet's Maison à travers les roses, a rare piece from the artist's final series, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into Impressionist history. The fair also introduced the LAPADA Fringe, a cultural programme celebrating Mayfair's artistic heritage through events like a recital at Handel Hendrix House and curated art tours at Brown's Hotel.
Sotheby’s & Christie’s Auctions
The iconic auction houses, Sotheby’s and Christie’s, were as magnetic as ever, with headline-grabbing lots and an atmosphere of intensity that captivated the audience. Sotheby’s featured modern masterpieces by the likes of Picasso and Monet, while Christie’s curated a tantalizing selection from European masters to contemporary visionaries. This season’s auctions revealed a fascinating shift in collecting trends, as younger buyers and digital-savvy collectors wielded their influence. Works by artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Banksy, and artists from Afro- and Latinx-American backgrounds drew fervent bidding, showing an undeniable expansion in the diversity of collector interests and market dynamics.
The Other Art Fair
In contrast to the grandeur of Frieze, The Other Art Fair, hosted by Saatchi Art, offered a refreshingly approachable experience. Here, attendees engaged directly with emerging artists, creating an intimate atmosphere that prioritized conversation and connection. The fair’s workshops and talks underlined its commitment to a more accessible art world, making it a highlight for those eager to discover new talent.
The Affordable Art Fair
The Affordable Art Fair at Battersea Park remained true to its inclusive ethos, presenting a range of works that make collecting achievable without compromising on quality. This year’s mix of photography, printmaking, and mixed media works felt both accessible and expertly curated. Attendees left with new additions to their collections and a more informed understanding of the collecting process—proof that remarkable art doesn’t always demand a substantial price tag.
Moniker Art Fair
With its focus on urban and digital art, Moniker Art Fair brought a different energy, catering to those intrigued by street art, graffiti, and new media. Known for its bold and often provocative displays, Moniker highlighted artists whose works reflect the raw pulse of urban life and social consciousness. For collectors looking to engage with contemporary issues, Moniker’s exhibits captured the spirit of the times with unapologetic vigour.
In summary, October’s vibrant offerings confirmed London’s role as a city where art’s diversity truly flourishes. With the month’s close, collectors and art lovers alike leave with refreshed perspectives, inspired by a city that, each autumn, reminds us of the boundless narrative potential of art.
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