An Insider
An Insider's Take on Frieze '17

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An Insider's Take on Frieze '17

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Gillian Wearing at Maureen Paley

I visited the first Frieze. Not only has it changed - become even more a well-oiled machine - it has had a profound impact on the London art world. It is a magnetic pole in an increasingly globalised market.

Jonathan Watkins
Plinth

What’s your connection to Frieze?

Jonathan Watkins

A not-for-profit type, I like to watch.

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Do you remember your first visit? How has it changed since then?

JW

I visited the first Frieze. Not only has it changed - become even more a well-oiled machine - it has had a profound impact on the London art world. It is a magnetic pole in an increasingly globalised market.

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Mary Reid Kelley with Patrick Kelley at Pilar Corrias

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Which stands do you always make a beeline for?

JW

New arrivals, from far-flung countries ...

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What satellite events are you excited to attend this week?

JW

The (far flung) Chisenhale brunch on Friday. I have a very soft spot for Chisenhale … Closer to home, I’m always keen to check out the African Art Fair - this year, at Somerset house. Sunday 8th promises The Singing Lecture, where Nastio Mosquito will be performing. I seek Nastio out where I can - an old friend, and a wonderful performer.

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Mary Reid Kelley with Patrick Kelley at Pilar Corrias

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If you had to describe Frieze in three words, what would they be?

JW

London, art, fair

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Where will you go nearby to take a breather?

JW

Govinda's Pure Vegetarian Restaurant in Soho.

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What are you looking out for at the fair?

JW

A bottle of water, occasionally.

Describe Frieze in three words? London, art, fair.

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If you ran Frieze for the day, what would be your first order of business?

JW

A 'buy one, get one free' special offer.

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Give us your best anecdote from Friezes past.

JW

Ryan Gander once painted a portrait of me sitting in the Deutsche Bank lounge …

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Insider’s tip for mitigating the craziness?

JW

Don't stay up too late ...

Godfried donkor

Godfried Donkor
Ebony Dakar Edition, 2015
Collage on Paper Courtesy of Gallery 1957

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