A NOTE FROM KAREN
I'm just back from London, Paris and Madrid, and I came home more optimistic about the market than I've been in a while.
After a challenging couple of years, it was great to see so much energy at Frieze London, Frieze Masters and Art Basel Paris. The fairs were busy and the quality of work was impressive. Galleries reported strong sales, even in Paris, where the fair closed two days early because of the protests. Not everyone is benefiting equally, but the overall mood was noticeably brighter.
Next up are the November auctions in New York, followed by Art Basel Miami Beach. Both should tell us whether this renewed momentum has staying power, and I'm looking forward to finding out.
THE ONE THING
Make it personal
What makes an art collection interesting isn't necessarily its size or value. It's what the collection reveals about the people who live with it.
What's so satisfying about collecting is that what speaks to you might leave someone else completely unmoved. A work might challenge how you think, capture a particular moment in your life, speak to a quirk in your taste, or simply bring you joy every time you see it.
You don't need to know everything about art to begin collecting. You just need curiosity and an open mind. As you discover new artists and develop your interests, your collection becomes a reflection of your own experiences and your evolving eye.
And perhaps the greatest pleasure of collecting is discovering something that opens a new door and takes you somewhere you never expected to go.
FROM THE FIELD
Julio Le Parc, Paris
A very special visit to the studio of Julio Le Parc, the pioneering kinetic artist who passed away in May at 97. His son Yamil showed us around, and it was fascinating to see where Le Parc worked, surrounded by decades of experimentation with color, light and movement.
Ana Mendieta, London
A private walkthrough of Ana Mendieta's exhibition at Tate Modern with the curators and the artist's niece, who manages her estate. Hearing firsthand about the research and decisions behind the show made an already extraordinary exhibition even more meaningful.
ON THE RADAR
November Auctions, New York
The November auctions are approaching, and all eyes will be on New York to see whether the positive momentum from London and Paris continues. I'll be watching the results closely, particularly which works attract competitive bidding and where buyers remain cautious.
Norman Bluhm, White Sheik, 1962
Krasner and Pollock, The Met, New York
I'm looking forward to seeing Krasner and Pollock: Past Continuous at The Met when I'm in New York this month. Bringing these two remarkable artists together offers a fresh look at their work and their relationship. On view through January 31, 2027.
Lee Krasner, Birth, 1956
WHERE I'LL BE
November 9–15 · ADAA Fair & Auction Previews, New York
November 15–19 · Gallery & Museum Visits, Los Angeles
December 2–6 · Art Basel Miami Beach & Miami Art Week