Minor Attractions, a contemporary art event, is returning for its second edition at the Mandrake Hotel from 8-13 October. Focused on collaboration among around 30 exhibitors in shared hotel rooms, the fair aims to create a lively atmosphere that links art with London’s nightlife, while providing robust support to participants.
Minor Attractions, an emerging contemporary art selling event that distinguishes itself as “not an art fair,” is set to return for its second edition at the Mandrake Hotel in Fitzrovia from 8-13 October. Building on the inaugural event’s dual venues, the fair will feature around 30 exhibitors sharing eight hotel rooms, fostering collaboration among participants, including established galleries like TJ Boulting and newer spaces like Double V and Palmer. Downstairs, a lounge exhibition will invite project spaces to showcase non-commercial works, drawing inspiration from the Basel Social Club. Co-founders Jonny Tanna and Jacob Barnes aim to revive London’s gallery scene by creating a vibrant atmosphere that merges art with the city’s nightlife. The event will include a multifunctional space that serves as both a screening room and nightclub, all enhanced by carefully curated environments to diverge from traditional art fair aesthetics. Minor Attractions also focuses on supporting exhibitors through extensive liaison services, in contrast to the cutthroat nature of many fairs, to ensure each participant feels valued and connected. Tanna, reflecting on his gallery’s success, emphasizes the importance of representing quality artists rather than chasing short-term commercial appeal.
Minor Attractions arises in response to perceived stagnation in London’s art scene, seeking to engage visitors and exhibitors through a refreshing format. This year’s return to the Mandrake Hotel signifies a shift towards a more upscale and collaborative environment for presenting contemporary art. By mirroring successful non-traditional art fairs, Minor Attractions aims to balance commercial and non-commercial interests while enhancing the visitor experience in a lively setting.
The second edition of Minor Attractions promises to redefine how art fairs operate, focusing on collaboration, support for exhibitors, and an engaging visitor experience. By blending art with elements of nightlife, Tanna and Barnes hope to rejuvenate London’s contemporary art landscape while ensuring quality engagement for all participants.
Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com