Frieze London just wrapped up at Regent’s Park. I was able to catch the tail end of the must-see art fair over the weekend.
While I was very excited and inspired by the art on view, the experience of visiting the art fair – of actually being there – was exhilarating.
Some observations….
Like many art events, Frieze seemed to be as much about seeing the art as about being seen. The tents and surrounding area brimmed with fashionable scenesters. Most attendees dressed for the occasion, donning their finest “arty” outfits – mismatched patterns, vibrant color, and anything uniquely high-end were en vogue.
And of course, beyond the well-curated closet choices, there were the outrageous outfits. Before even entering the fair, I crossed paths with a woman (I think) wearing an all white flowing dress… that draped over her well-platformed feet… and extended all the way up, covering her entire head (white mesh completely covered her face). Probably not the best way to clearly see the art on view… but certainly a sure-fire way to put yourself on view.
Beyond admiring attendees’ trendy trappings, I spent much of my time at Frieze observing the wonderful interaction between young children and the art on display.
At many art institutions (think the solemn museum space or the “white cube” style high-end gallery) I feel hesitant to express a physical (or sometimes even vocal) response to pieces. I often feel the need to whisper (if I dare to speak at all) while inside the hallowed halls of the museum or gallery space. Not quite the right atmosphere for a young, wondrous, and potentially rambunctious child.
Yet, at Frieze London, many attendees brought their little ones along for the ride.
And rather than prohibiting, Frieze almost seemed to encourage direct interaction with many of its pieces.
Little kids could not only look on in wonder at the magical imaginings around them… but they could also touch and feel and even crawl through some of the art works.
What a wonderful way for children (and children at heart) to re-engage with art! How exciting to be able to introduce a child to the magical realm of art…. potentially inspiring a whole new generation of artists.
Shot at Frieze London art fair in Regent’s Park, London. All photos by Nicole Weiler.