SOLO CONTEMPORARY
A New Platform for Contemporary British Art at British Art Fair 2022
Invited to exhibit on the second floor of London’s Saatchi Gallery are ten of Britain’s leading contemporary art dealers, who will each show the works of one artist. Curated by Zavier Ellis of CHARLIE SMITH LONDON, the addition will introduce a further faction to British Art Fair.
Zavier Ellis, an artist himself, is an originator of multiple art-based initiatives including CHARLIE SMITH LONDON, a 15-year curatorial gallery project that will be representing artist Hugh Mendes at the show. He says:
“We’re excited to insert an insurgent element into the Fair, but one which works in perfect harmony with the other galleries and sections. It will feel curated, being solo booths only, and vibrant. There will be ten gallerists/curators who each have their own vision, believe in their artists, and who are hungry to engage.”
This dialogue between galleries is evident in Zavier’s choosing Mendes, whose series of self-portrait ‘obituaries’ will reference dead British artists whose work can be seen elsewhere in the show. House favourite Susie Hamilton, who drew critical acclaim with her hospital paintings during the Covid-19 pandemic, will be exhibiting with dealer Paul Stolper, as will artist Jessica St. James delivered by emerging French curator MC Llamas.
Renowned British artist Rebecca Salter, newly appointed President of the Royal Academy of Arts, will be represented by Patrick Heide, Painter and Sculptor Charming Baker with Jealous Gallery, Jim Threapleton represented by No20 Arts, Nick Jensen will appear again with UNION Gallery, as will long time collaborators HM Electric Gallery and DSC. Bermondsey Project Space is showing work by Stephen Newton, and Phillips Blond’s Blond Contemporary will represent Josh Rowell.
Gay Hutson, Founding Director, British Art Fair says:
"The British Art Fair was founded in 1988 by a group of selected dealers specifically to promote the most talented British artists of its time, most of whom apart from Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth were unknown and undervalued on the international market, but now many of whose work commands very high prices. SOLO CONTEMPORARY gives us the opportunity to continue with this vital part of the fair.”
SOLO CONTEMPORARY Galleries: CHARLIE SMITH LONDON, Paul Stolper, Guerin Projects, Patrick Heide, Jealous, No 20 Arts, UNION Gallery, HM Electric, Bermondsey Project Space, Blond Contemporary. Artists: Rebecca Salter, Hugh Mendes, Susie Hamilton Jessica St. James, Charming Baker, Jim Threapleton, Nick Jensen, DSC, Stephen Newton, Josh Rowell
Read an Interview with SOLO CONTEMPORARY curator Zavier Ellis: