B Lab U.S. & Canada’s Post

HERE TO STAY: SATELLITE NON-FAIRS Cooling down from the epic London vs. Paris battle, Art Cologne or LOOP Barcelona and ahead of Miami Beach, we look back at two smaller yet very powerful ‘non-fair’ art affairs from this year: the Swiss #BaselSocialClub and British #MinorAttractions. They have little in common except their satellite relation to blue chip fairs, Art Basel and Frieze respectively, and a leaning towards adventure. BUREAU N assisted in their pursuit of finding the right words, tone of voice, and communication skills to become (and stay) relevant amidst a rather overwhelmed art market. Young initiatives bringing together dozens of galleries and artists face the typical positioning and profiling challenges of any other art fair, often overcome with strong corporate identities, bountiful communication channels and an army of collaborators and partners. At stake for Basel Social Club and Minor Attractions is also the proposition of a new satellite model, a trial-and-error maze, posing a strategic tension between: accessibility and divertimento vs sales and business. Central to their distinction has been choosing unorthodox locations, anything but convention centres or artworld commerce. Take Basel Social Club's abandoned villa, a former mayonnaise factory, or this year's pastoral crop fields. "No one told the cows not to lick the artwork", pointed out The New York Times, since the exhibition was fully alfresco. In London (indoors) a gallerist admitted to the The Art Newspaper: "It's the first bathroom I've ever curated," referring to Minor Attractions, which took place in The Mandrake's 5-star suites. Yet their success, as you may guess, lies in the realm of social capital. Efficient communication must therefore unfold first behind the curtains—participants should be provided with materials, images and key messages and encouraged to spread the word. In other words: row together. In conversation with the Financial Times, co-founder Jacob Barnes described Minor Attractions as a "level playing field" and "a platform for galleries that can't always be spotlighted by the current, growing, infrastructure.” On-site, what ultimately glues these two ventures together is an impressive line-up of performances and events running until late. This attentiveness to experience design and accessibility goes above and beyond the implications of free-entry and an open-to-all policy. At this stage, there's no time left for printed matter and essayistic descriptions; instead, it's the good old "be there or be square". What they needed were festival-like runners; updatable interactive maps; organising complex schedules; and streaming ‘cottagecore’ content on social media. One way or another, we are looking forward to continuing our support for Basel Social Club and Minor Attractions in their bold, alternative thinking. It's safe to say, art trends may change, but these new players are here to stay. Words by Zaida Violan Aris for BureauN

The Art Works is a growing industry and apart the up and down in the market You're absolutely right! The art industry is indeed a dynamic and evolving field, with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Despite market fluctuations, the art market has shown remarkable resilience over the years. Current Trends in the Art Market Resilience Amid Challenges: The global art market has faced economic challenges such as high interest rates and inflation. Despite these obstacles, the market has remained relatively stable, with sales in 2023 reaching an estimated $65 billion. Online Sales Growth: Online marketplaces have become increasingly important, helping galleries connect with new collectors and make sales. This shift to digital platforms has been crucial, especially during times when physical art fairs and exhibitions were less feasible. Cost-Cutting Measures: Many galleries have implemented cost-cutting measures to maintain profitability, such as reducing administrative expenses and marketing budgets. Some have also scaled back on participating in art fairs due to high costs. Future Outlook Sustainable Growth: The focus for many galleries in 2024 is on achieving sustainable and profitable growth. This involves finding ways to navigate the uncertain economic and political landscape while maintaining stability. Global Reach: The US continues to lead the global art market, but other regions like China and the UK also play significant roles. The market is becoming more globalized, with buyers and sellers from different parts of the world participating in transactions. Conclusion The art industry's ability to adapt and evolve in response to market conditions is a testament to its resilience. While there are ups and downs, the industry continues to thrive, driven by innovation, digital transformation, and a globalized approach to art sales.

With Art Basel Hong Kong on the horizon, the global spotlight shines brightly on the art world. 🎨 In the realm of sustainability, the union of art and activism emerges as a potent force for transformative change. Art Basel, recognized as one of the premier art festivals worldwide, stands at the forefront of this synergy, leveraging artistic expression to champion diverse social and environmental causes. ✊ Art Basel's commitment to utilizing art as a platform for sustainability underscores the immense potential of creativity to effect positive change. ➕ Through innovative installations, immersive exhibits, and collaborative projects, the festival harnesses art's intrinsic power to ignite conversations, inspire action, and catalyze global progress. 🎙️ As we contemplate the multifaceted role of art in shaping our world, Art Basel stands as a poignant reminder that art is not merely a reflection of society but a powerful force for shaping its trajectory. 📈 It serves as a testament to the profound impact that art can wield when harnessed for the collective good, inspiring hope and driving progress on a global scale. 🌎 If you would like to use your creativity for the greater good, check out how you can at —-> https://lnkd.in/egQpp4jY #artbasel #art #artmatters #sustainability #innovation #creativity #creativitymatters #change #global https://lnkd.in/gDR4Fx6t

To Frieze or Not to Frieze: Are collectors leaning towards Paris, the City of Love and Art, over London? As Frieze Week opens in London, collectors are also preparing for the newly rebranded Art Basel Paris, raising questions about which city is the priority this year. With Paris often dubbed the "City of Love", it's not just romantic allure that draws international art lovers, but its deep cultural roots as the birthplace of Impressionism and home to leading modern painters like Picasso and Matisse. The post-Olympic glow and the reopening of the Grand Palais make Art Basel Paris particularly attractive. Arianne Piper, a London-based art advisor, highlights how Paris’s glamour and ease of navigation make it appealing, especially for collectors with limited time. Above all, Paris holds a unique place in art history as the center of revolutionary movements like Impressionism and Cubism, where the streets once inspired Monet, Degas, Caillebotte and Van Gogh. This legacy lives on today, with Paris’s contemporary gallery scene booming and attracting more international attention, making it an irresistible destination for collectors. Meanwhile, London’s art scene still thrives, with its global art market status. But a slightly stronger British pound (trading at $1.32 to the dollar, compared to $1.22 last year) could make London pricier for collectors. In contrast, the euro exchange rate remains more favorable at $1.10. Additionally, the UK's post-Brexit bureaucracy is causing administrative headaches for galleries, according to Martin Wilson of the British Art Market Federation. Eva Langret, director of Frieze London, emphasizes the city’s role as a global stage for young artists and creatives. However, the magnetic pull of Paris, with its artistic history and cultural prestige, seems to be casting a shadow over London’s usual dominance this year. Frieze has responded by extending its VIP programming into the weekend, aiming to capture those stopping by before heading to Paris, but how this affects sales remains to be seen. #artcollecting #artexhibition #artmuseum #artinvesting #artinvestment #artcollector #artnews #artworld #artmarket #artmarketnews #artauction #arthistory #worldrecord #modernart #impressionism #postwar #frieze #artbasel #london #paris

Wondering what's trending in contemporary art in 2024? "...Let’s celebrate the dynamic interplay of technology, sustainability, color, diversity, and equity in contemporary art. These trends not only reflect the current state of our world but also challenge us to envision a future where art becomes a powerful catalyst for positive change.  #ArtTrends #ArtWorld #ArtisticExpression #EmergingArtists

"The lower end of the market is where creativity and risk-taking flourish, offering a platform for emerging artists and where prices—sometimes under $5,000—make art accessible to new buyers. This is typically where the journey of any collector begins. Proposals such as free booth space, fair and transparent selection of galleries away from nepotism, reduction of art prices, mandatory price transparency, the use of technology for personalized tours of the fair, and artist and gallery participation in fair profits could put galleries and artists on a more secure financial footing. The solution lies in disruptive change and a shift in perspective – away from outdated revenue streams and towards bold steps to foster a vibrant, inclusive market." Such an interesting and correct article: https://lnkd.in/d5rRxB7N

Some of the world's largest corporations are among the primary collectors of fine art. This interesting article sheds light on the intersection of business and art. 🌐🖼️ Corporate art collections aren't just about decoration; they tell powerful stories, reflect a company's values, and create inspiring workspaces. It's fascinating to see how major corporations like Bank of America are curating thought-provoking collections that transcend the conventional boundaries of the corporate world. What are your thoughts on the role of art in the business realm? Have you experienced any workplace with an outstanding art collection? ⬇️ Share your thoughts down below! #ArtoftheWorldGallery #artgallery #htx #houston #modern #contemporary #ArtandBusiness #CorporateCulture #ArtCollecting #artcollector #fineart #artconsulting

"The substantial cost for designers, artists and art centres to attend fashion events is well documented, with 2024 seeing these expenses only increase. Because of these travel, transfer and accommodation costs, it is becoming increasingly common for designers, artists and art centres to showcase and present their works at events without physically attending. Additionally, Indigenous designers, art centres and artists selected for such events are often emerging and new to the industry and often receiving minimal support from outside sponsors such a fashion brands or retailers." 🤔 Could Digital Fashion & Virtual Showrooms be the solution? 💡 Some of the issues our First Nations Cultural Innovation Program at AI and Cyber Futures Institute is exploring. 📍 Read full article here: https://lnkd.in/ep7Xk7rG #DigitalFashion #VirtualShowrooms #TechnologicalEmpowerment #EmergingTechnologies #DigitalThreads #IndigenousFashion #AICFInstitue

Basel Social Club revamps Art Fair Model with bucolic setting. Basel Social Club (BSC), a roving art project, has moved to a 50-hectare farm for its third edition, combining exhibition, sales, and social interaction. Launched in 2022, previous editions were held in a villa and a mayonnaise factory in Basel. BSC's ethos counters the traditional sterile art fairs, providing a fresh, relaxed experience. Co-founder Yael Salomonowitz notes the farm setting was initially a joke, now offering visitors a chance to enjoy art outdoors amidst nature, with activities like strawberry picking and cow watching. Around 100 works are displayed, mostly outdoors, with weather-resistant materials key. BSC remains a non-profit and insists it is “not an art fair,” despite offering galleries a modest €2,500 participation fee and free spaces for galleries from the Global South. Sales do occur, but many pieces are loans, supported by Swiss cultural foundations. Established galleries, such as Esther Schipper, participate, drawn by BSC's experimental format. While some works remain unsold, the event encourages deeper engagement and slower viewing, contrasting with the rush of traditional fairs. BSC’s model reflects a broader trend towards experiential, relationship-based art viewing. Melanie Gerlis of The Art Newspaper notes that art fairs need in-person interactions, which BSC facilitates. Art Basel, meanwhile, is adapting to generational shifts in collecting, launching social venues like the riverside Hotel Merian. The "great wealth transfer" from baby boomers to millennials is expected to change spending patterns, increasing the need for immersive experiences over mere sales platforms. BSC aims to decelerate time, encouraging leisurely engagement with art. This year’s events included a performance by Haddaway and opportunities for socializing in nature. The project’s community-oriented approach fosters camaraderie among dealers, contrasting with traditional fairs. While BSC’s utopian model may be ahead of its time, it signals a potential future for art fairs, balancing business with a more enjoyable and sustainable experience. However, the traditional fair model, crucial for gallery revenue, is unlikely to disappear soon. #artcollecting #artexhibition #artmuseum #artinvesting #artinvestment #artcollector #artnews #artworld #artmarket #artmarketnews #artauction #artgallery #artfair #arthistory #artworld #fair #worldrecord #modernart #impressionism #postwar #contemporaryart #artbasel #basel

Basel Social Club revamps Art Fair Model with bucolic setting. Basel Social Club (BSC), a roving art project, has moved to a 50-hectare farm for its third edition, combining exhibition, sales, and social interaction. Launched in 2022, previous editions were held in a villa and a mayonnaise factory in Basel. BSC's ethos counters the traditional sterile art fairs, providing a fresh, relaxed experience. Co-founder Yael Salomonowitz notes the farm setting was initially a joke, now offering visitors a chance to enjoy art outdoors amidst nature, with activities like strawberry picking and cow watching. Around 100 works are displayed, mostly outdoors, with weather-resistant materials key. BSC remains a non-profit and insists it is “not an art fair,” despite offering galleries a modest €2,500 participation fee and free spaces for galleries from the Global South. Sales do occur, but many pieces are loans, supported by Swiss cultural foundations. Established galleries, such as Esther Schipper, participate, drawn by BSC's experimental format. While some works remain unsold, the event encourages deeper engagement and slower viewing, contrasting with the rush of traditional fairs. BSC’s model reflects a broader trend towards experiential, relationship-based art viewing. Melanie Gerlis of The Art Newspaper notes that art fairs need in-person interactions, which BSC facilitates. Art Basel, meanwhile, is adapting to generational shifts in collecting, launching social venues like the riverside Hotel Merian. The "great wealth transfer" from baby boomers to millennials is expected to change spending patterns, increasing the need for immersive experiences over mere sales platforms. BSC aims to decelerate time, encouraging leisurely engagement with art. This year’s events included a performance by Haddaway and opportunities for socializing in nature. The project’s community-oriented approach fosters camaraderie among dealers, contrasting with traditional fairs. While BSC’s utopian model may be ahead of its time, it signals a potential future for art fairs, balancing business with a more enjoyable and sustainable experience. However, the traditional fair model, crucial for gallery revenue, is unlikely to disappear soon. #artcollecting #artexhibition #artmuseum #artinvesting #artinvestment #artcollector #artnews #artworld #artmarket #artmarketnews #artauction #artgallery #artfair #arthistory #artworld #fair #worldrecord #modernart #impressionism #postwar #contemporaryart #artbasel #basel https://lnkd.in/en8vH-as