Amândio Pereira and Janet Morais

The Regent’s Park in London played host to one of the most anticipated events in the art world – the 20th anniversary edition of Frieze London and the 11th edition of Frieze Masters. This dynamic duo of art fairs took the art community on a journey through history, showcasing an eclectic mix of contemporary and historical art.

Frieze London: A Global Art Extravaganza

Frieze London 2023 proved to be the most international edition of the fair yet. With over 160 leading galleries from 40 countries, the fair featured a diverse array of artworks that transcended borders. While the fair celebrated art from around the world, it also had a strong presence of London-based exhibitors, with 59 operating spaces within the city.

One of the standout features of this year’s Frieze London was the “Artist-to-Artist” initiative. As part of the 20th-anniversary celebrations, renowned artists like Olafur Eliasson, Tracey Emin, and others were invited to propose artists for solo presentations. This innovative concept brought fresh voices and perspectives to the fair, emphasizing the role of artists as advocates.

The “Focus” section, dedicated to galleries formed in or after 2011, showcased emerging talent. The presentations reflected the diversity and dynamism of contemporary art, making it an exciting segment for art enthusiasts.

“Editions” featured limited-edition artworks by international artists at affordable prices, making the art world accessible to new audiences. It provided a unique opportunity for art lovers to explore and invest in the world of art.

Frieze Masters: A Journey Through Art History

Frieze Masters, under the leadership of Nathan Clements-Gillespie, offered visitors a rich tapestry of art across six millennia. The fair was a treasure trove of rare antiquities, Old Master paintings, and 20th-century masterpieces. It allowed art enthusiasts to embark on a journey through art history, rediscovering the beauty and significance of works from different periods.

The introduction of “Modern Women,” a section curated by Camille Morineau, was a noteworthy addition. This segment focused on solo exhibitions by women artists, with an emphasis on works created between 1880 and 1980. It provided a platform for celebrating the contributions of women artists during a pivotal period in history.

Another exciting addition was “Studio,” curated by Sheena Wagstaff. This section gave insight into the creative spaces of artists, offering a glimpse into their artistic processes and inspirations.

“Spotlight,” curated by Valerie Cassel Oliver, highlighted under-appreciated work by 20th-century artists from the 1950s to the 1970s. It was a platform to discover hidden gems in the art world.

The “Stand Out” section, returning for the third consecutive year, challenged traditional hierarchies of media in contemporary art. It encouraged a reevaluation of artworks once dismissed as ‘decorative,’ inviting viewers to reconsider their significance.

Frieze Week: A Cultural Extravaganza

Frieze Week, running from October 9 to 15, extended beyond the fairs, enveloping galleries, institutions, and artist-led spaces across London. It was a celebration of culture, where the city resonated with the rhythm of contemporary and historical art.

The 20th anniversary edition of Frieze London and the 11th edition of Frieze Masters were a resounding success, drawing art enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs from around the world. These fairs, with their diverse and innovative programs, celebrated artists, supported emerging talent, and offered a captivating journey through the history of art.