Art Market Monitor

Global Coverage ~ Unique Analysis

  • AMMpro
  • AMM Fantasy Collecting Game
  • Podcast
  • Contact Us

Olympics v. London's Newest Artist Enclave

July 18, 2011 by Marion Maneker

The Observer goes in depth on Fish Island, the London artist’s neighborhood that is also ground zero for the coming 2012 Olympics, by talking to Daren Ellis who has opened a gallery there:

“I’m here because of the Olympics,” says Ellis, 42, who has already put on two Games-themed exhibitions, one of them a collection of aerial photography of the site. “There are an awful lot of interesting things happening here because of the Olympics. I’m interested in them not so much as an event but in how they will transform east London and how the vision for the Olympics is being constructed.. The Olympic Park will be magnificent.”

Not everyone is so optimistic. For several years, since the huge successes of the Young British Artists made their once-edgy stamping grounds of Hoxton and Shoreditch wealthier but blander, emerging artists have been moving further from the centre for more affordable space. In Hackney Wick, they felt they had stumbled on a piece of secret London. With a year to go before the Olympics, however, it is secret no more. And, while discovery has brought new money and new interest, it has also brought concern.

For Gavin Turk, one of the leading YBAs and now a proud resident of Fish Island, there is a sense of déjà vu. He says the area’s artistic vibrancy has been recognised by local decision-makers and believes the Games could prove a striking cultural achievement. But, he said, everyone knew 2012 could have a big impact on the local cherished low rents.

How Power, Money and Art Are Shifting to the East End (Observer)

More from Art Market Monitor

  • Christie’s Compact May Imp Mod Sale: 32 Lots with $100m Estimate Christie’s Compact May Imp Mod Sale: 32 Lots with $100m Estimate
  • Sotheby's Old Master DrawingsSotheby's Old Master Drawings
  • Management Team Buys Out Philly’s Freeman’sManagement Team Buys Out Philly’s Freeman’s
  • The New Plan at the Met? Same As the Old Plan But Slower (+ Plus A Lot More Revenue from the Gift Shops)The New Plan at the Met? Same As the Old Plan But Slower (+ Plus A Lot More Revenue from the Gift Shops)
  • Christie’s PWC Evening = $538.9mChristie’s PWC Evening = $538.9m
  • Earning Power of Corporate ArtEarning Power of Corporate Art

Filed Under: General

About Marion Maneker

LiveArt

Want to get Art Market Monitor‘s posts sent to you in our email? Sign up below by clicking on the Subscribe button.

  • About Us/ Contact
  • Podcast
  • AMMpro
  • Newsletter
  • FAQ

twitterfacebooksoundcloud
Privacy Policy
Terms & Conditions
California Privacy Rights
Do Not Sell My Personal Information
Advertise on Art Market Monitor