London’s art scene is set to shine this month with the return of its annual autumn festival. Frieze London, Frieze Masters, and PAD London are back, each with new exhibitors and exciting events.
The city will transform into a hub of creativity, attracting art enthusiasts and collectors from around the globe. With a mix of established and emerging artists, this year’s lineup promises something for every taste.
Frieze London: A Celebration of Contemporary Art
American artist Alex da Corte will unveil a 3.5-meter-tall sculpture, Princess Daffodil, a centerpiece that’s hard to miss.
The fair also features The Code Universe, curated by Carol Yinghua Lu. This exhibition explores pop culture through the works of artists like Shinro Ohtake and Oototol.
Frieze’s artist-to-artist section is another highlight. Here, established artists nominate peers who deserve more recognition. This year, Yinka Shonibare has chosen Unathi Mkonto, a South African sculptor known for his wooden creations.
Dominican-born artist Firelei Báez has nominated Eilen Itzel do Espírito Santo. Santo, an Afro-Dominican American artist, will display her abstract paintings in a unique, womb-like installation.
Frieze Masters: A Journey Through Art History
The Reflections section returns, drawing inspiration from the homes of Luis Barragán and Charles and Maggie Jencks.
For those seeking grandeur, Colnaghi Gallery will exhibit van Dyck’s Portrait of a Nobleman, a nearly two-meter-tall painting from the 17th century. Meanwhile, Rupert Wace will showcase a 26th-Dynasty bronze figure of Ptah, the Egyptian god of craftsmen, once owned by William Randolph Hearst.
This event offers a unique opportunity to engage with art from various historical periods, providing a full overview of artistic evolution.
PAD London: Design and Innovation in Mayfair
This year, 12 new galleries and designers join the event, including Bessa Pereira Gallery, which presents The Ways of Seating, a collection of Brazilian modernist furniture.
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Maria Sipińska, a Polish furniture designer, will display her luminous and tactile pieces at Mia Karlova Galerie. PIK’D, a Beirut gallery founded by Randa Missir, will feature glassware and ceramics from emerging Lebanese artists.
Missir’s gallery has a powerful story. After being injured in the 2020 Beirut explosion, she lost most of her glassware collection. Despite this, she continues to support young Lebanese talent, making PIK’D a must-visit destination.
Beyond the Main Events: Satellite Attractions
London‘s art festival extends beyond the main fairs.
Miles Aldridge, a renowned photographer, will set up his studio on South Audley Street, offering one-off Polaroid portraits. The Art Pub Quiz at The Audley Public House adds a fun twist, hosted by cabaret artist David Hoyle.
Founded by London gallerists Jonny Tanna and Jacob Barnes, this fair has become an insider favorite.
With 75 galleries and non-profits participating, Minor Attractions offers a more intimate experience. Visitors can play mahjong with Mahjong Palace or attend a conversation between writer Simon Amstell and Ghislain Pascale, director of Boys!Boys!Boys! gallery.
The fair also includes live radio broadcasts, performances, and exhibits from galleries worldwide, making it a dynamic and inclusive part of London’s art festival.
This exhibition features 30 wind chimes by Welsh artist Cerith Wyn Evans, alongside ceramics, paintings, and sculptures by other artists.
Sponsored by American Express The Platinum Card, the show offers cardholders a special gift during the preview day.
