The opening day of the Frieze Los Angeles art fair has ignited a wave of enthusiasm among galleries, with reports indicating a remarkable surge in sales. With many New Yorkers escaping the winter weather, the aisles were bustling with art enthusiasts, including prominent California collectors and cultural figures.
"It's a frenzy," remarked LA dealer Charlie James, who was surrounded by vibrant works from artists like Kristopher Raos and Manuel López. Niamh Coghlan, director of London's Richard Saltoun Gallery, shared that their sales had already tripled those at Art Basel Miami Beach last December. "This is the perfect-sized fair," she noted, highlighting the participation of around 100 exhibitors at the Santa Monica Airport.
Major galleries reported impressive transactions. David Zwirner Gallery sold a 2016 piece by Njideka Akunyili Crosby for $2.8 million, alongside other notable sales including Lynette Yiadom-Boakye's 2020 painting for $1.5 million. Thaddaeus Ropac Gallery also experienced strong sales, moving Alex Katz's Purple Split 3 for $700,000 and multiple other works in the six-figure range.
Karma Gallery made a strong debut, selling Jonas Wood's Poppies series for $650,000 within hours of the fair's opening. Nicholas Olney from Olney Gleason Gallery reported significant sales early in the day, indicating a robust interest in their showcased artists.
Stefano DiPaola from Anat Ebgi Gallery remarked on the day's success, stating they had placed works from nearly every artist in their booth, including an $11,000 piece sold to the California African American Museum. Almine Rech Gallery also noted a positive atmosphere, with sales ranging from $50,000 to over $850,000.
As the fair progressed, top collectors and notable figures, including museum trustees and celebrities, wandered the aisles, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere. Notable attendees included actors such as Fiona Shaw and Emma Watson, adding a touch of glamour to the event.
Artistic expressions reflecting Los Angeles' unique culture were prominently showcased. Fernberger Gallery presented large landscape paintings by Greta Waller, capturing the city's essence and current social issues. Meanwhile, Casemore Gallery, in collaboration with Yancey Richardson, offered a provocative view of LA's culture through Larry Sultan's photographs from behind the scenes of the adult film industry.
As the day concluded, galleries reported numerous six-figure sales, with David Kordansky Gallery highlighting works by various artists that fetched impressive prices. Despite concerns about the art market's stability, the opening day of Frieze LA showcased a thriving art scene, brimming with creativity and opportunity.