Reflections on the 1990s London Artworld's Transition from Creative Chaos to Professionalization
The author examines the evolution of London's art scene from the mid-1990s through the early 2000s, highlighting its transition from bold creativity to a more professional approach. They began their career in the mid-1990s, landing initial writing gigs with Dazed & Confused and Time Out, which led to unpaid positions. In 1997, a letter to a gallery owner resulted in a job managing a space, despite their lack of sales experience. The gallerist lived a lavish bohemian lifestyle, drawing in a clientele of rock stars and royalty. Many prominent gallery dealers emerged during this time, often coming from artistic backgrounds. Following the millennium, the rise of trust-fund individuals opening upscale galleries led to increased rents and a decline in creative risk, as the vibrant chaos of the 1990s diminished due to gentrification and a focus on fairness.
Key facts
- The author began their artworld career in the mid-1990s after leaving art school.
- They secured early writing work by sending critical letters to Dazed & Confused and Time Out around age 22.
- In circa 1997, a letter to a gallery owner led to employment as a press officer and later gallery manager.
- The gallerist lived a posh-bohemian lifestyle, owed back rent, and relied on charm and secondary-market deals.
- Many current London dealers started out in the 1990s, some with artist training, and later professionalized.
- Artist-run spaces were more common in the 1990s, with gallerists like a South London architect showing chaotic behavior.
- Gregor Muir was a rival writer encountered at events during this period.
- After the millennium, trust-fund kids opened spaces, increasing professionalism and reducing risk-taking.
Entities
Artists
- Gregor Muir
Institutions
- Dazed & Confused
- Time Out
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- South London
- Home Counties