London Gallery Weekend launches inaugural edition in June 2021

The inaugural London Gallery Weekend is set to take place from 4 to 6 June 2021, showcasing more than 80 galleries throughout the city. This complimentary three-day event will feature a variety of activities, including discussions, studio tours, late-night openings, and performances, in addition to a VIP program tailored for curators and collectors. Born out of the COVID-19 lockdown, this grassroots effort seeks to cultivate community and support among the diverse gallery ecosystem in London. Each day will highlight a specific area: Friday for central London, Saturday for south London, and Sunday for East End galleries. Jeremy Epstein, cofounder of Edel Assanti gallery and the London Gallery Weekend, emphasized the collaboration and expertise within the community to create this annual celebration, appealing to both local and international audiences. Gallerist Sid Motion pointed out the event's importance in promoting young galleries and emerging artists alongside established figures, showcasing city-wide collaboration. According to England's lockdown schedule, commercial galleries can reopen no sooner than 12 April, while public galleries can do so from 17 May. The organizers characterize it as a democratic, peer-driven initiative aimed at shaping the future of the art scene.