The opening of Frieze New York at The Shed in Hudson Yards marked the beginning of a bustling week in the art world. The fair witnessed a notable range of sales and presented an engaging mix of artworks across various booths.
Despite lacking the blockbuster multi-million dollar sales of earlier years, blue-chip galleries like Hauser & Wirth and White Cube continued to report significant transactions. The intricate dynamics of art sales at fairs, self-reported by galleries, add an element of complexity to the verifiability of such transactions. Nevertheless, several mid-size operations recorded successful sales at lower price points.
For instance, the Seoul-based Kukje Gallery achieved a commendable feat by selling all of its paper collage works by Haegue Yang, with prices spanning from €27,000 to €42,000. Meanwhile, Tif Sigfrids from Athens, Georgia, saw all the paintings by artist Hasani Sahlehe at its booth find eager buyers, each fetching between $15,000 and $20,000, with one purchased by the Georgia Museum of Art. Stephen Friedman also reported a successful run with the sale of all wall-based sculptures by British artist Holly Hendry, commanding prices from £6,500 to £15,000.
Another highlight of the event was the international survey of painting, textiles, and collage displayed at The Shed’s galleries. This attracted the attention of art critics and enthusiasts, adding depth and variety to the rich tapestry of artistic expression at Frieze New York.
The fair, now in its 12th year and situated at the vibrant Hudson Yards, provided an opportunity for visitors to engage with an array of thought-provoking artworks. While the commercial aspect is undeniably integral to such events, the experience for many is one of exploration, learning, and enjoyment. The $76 general admission fee opened the door for weekend visitors to indulge in the visual feast offered by the fair.
The vibrant atmosphere at The Shed in Hudson Yards was further enhanced by the healthy presence of VIPs during the fair’s VIP opening. Frieze New York took its place at the forefront of a fortnight of art world events in New York, contributing to a lively and dynamic art scene. With other notable art fairs and events like Future Fair and 1:54 also opening their preview days within close proximity, the Chelsea neighborhood was abuzz with artistic energy.
The combination of impressive sales, delightful showcases, and the colorful ambiance at The Shed undoubtedly solidified Frieze New York 2024 as a significant gathering in the contemporary art world. The fair’s ability to attract a diverse array of art enthusiasts and industry professionals while fostering opportunities for galleries and artists is a testament to its enduring appeal.
