BASEL: The hype about fine art is immense and I am always wondering how to handle the art fairs whether it is Frieze London, Basel or Miami, etc. Almost every city has its own fair nowadays. I ask Leonie Moschner, Christie’s Contemporary Art Senior Specialist, to give me a clear picture of how to go about this year’s Art Basel in Switzerland. Follow me on instagram.
THE FAIR: Art Basel is always a surprise and immense pleasure. Even though one encounters many well-known artists there are always new discoveries to be made. I remember seeing Tauba Auerbach at Standard gallery from Oslo for the first time, which was extraordinary and Joe Bradley’s abstracts at Gavin Brown who is one of my fav artists. It will be interesting to see which new talents the galleries are bringing and I am particularly excited to see the paintings by Brent Wadden at Peres Projects at Liste 19.
KNOW YOUR TRADE: The hype is amazing and working at an auction house brings one very close to the epicenter of the market. My advice to collectors is always the same: Buy what you like, but first be informed! You don’t want to overpay and regret it afterwards. A collection should be personal more than just a fashion that is very likely to change in a few years anyhow. Inform yourself, go and see as many shows as possible, talk to peers and dealers or auction house experts. We are all happy to give advice. And follow what’s happening at the auctions. There are usually some very good bargains to be found if you know what you are looking for.
GOOD POINT: Up-and-coming talent can be great, but prices should be in line with the exhibition career and shows; don’t overpay for hype!
GO & SEE: Gavin Brown, Peres Projects, Thomas Dane, David Zwirner, Gagosian is always amazing. Pace Gallery for classics, Blum & Poe, Anton Kern, Sadie Coles etc, etc.
GET INSPIRED: I get inspired when I see beauty or new ideas. Personally, I love works that have a lot of craft or work with textiles, such as Brent Wadden and Marc Barrow. The old masters inspire me, such as Zurbaran and Rembrandt. It’s difficult to describe what is good art. Usually art speaks to you in a subconscious way, you just know it and react to it.
TAKE A BREAK: Taking a break at Fondation Beyeler Wing is a treat. They have a big retrospective by Richter at the moment. To me the most peaceful and incredible museum.
