Charles Saatchi's New Gallery Strategy: From Discoverer to Consecrator
In Chelsea, London, the Saatchi Gallery was inaugurated by Charles Saatchi in October 2008, transitioning its emphasis from emerging to established artists. The gallery embraces photography, reflecting a commitment to public engagement. Saatchi, recognized for his support of Young British Artists and showcasing Jeff Koons, has teamed up with auction house Phillips to offer free entry and resale rights. The gallery's first exhibition, 'The Revolution Continues,' highlighted artists such as Feng Zhengjie and Zhang Xiaogang. Currently, 'Abstract America: New Painting and Sculpture' runs until January 17, featuring artists from New York galleries and previous Saatchi collaborators. Saatchi also competes with the Serpentine Gallery and has created an online platform for over 120,000 artists. In his 2009 book, he discussed his impact since the 'Sensation' exhibition in 1997.
Key facts
- Saatchi Gallery opened in Chelsea, London in October 2008.
- Photography is allowed in the gallery, unlike most London contemporary art venues.
- Saatchi discovered the Young British Artists in the late 1980s.
- He exhibited Jeff Koons in 1987.
- The gallery is free thanks to sponsorship from Phillips auction house.
- Phillips has exclusive resale rights for works from Saatchi's collection.
- The inaugural exhibition was 'The Revolution Continues' featuring Chinese artists.
- 'Abstract America: New Painting and Sculpture' runs until January 17.
- Saatchi's online platform has 60 million daily visitors and 120,000 artists.
- Saatchi stated in his 2009 book that his best days may be behind him.
Entities
Artists
- Charles Saatchi
- Jeff Koons
- Feng Zhengjie
- Zhang Xiaogang
- Stephen Rhodes
- Dan Colen
- Mark Rothko
- Donatien Grau
Institutions
- Saatchi Gallery
- Phillips
- Serpentine Gallery
- Royal Academy of London
- Haunch of Venison New York
- Tate Modern
- Deitch Projects
- Bellwether
- P.S.1
- Art Review
Locations
- Chelsea
- London
- United Kingdom
- New York
- United States
- Kensington
- China
- India
- Middle East
Sources
- artpress —