The unmissable guide to Frieze London Week 2023: what to do, see, and eat
Discover our curated selection of art fairs, exhibitions, and engaging talks, accompanied by enticing dining spots to enhance your Frieze London week experience.
Art Fairs
Frieze London
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Frieze London, a celebration of artistry featuring over 160 esteemed galleries. Among them, 28 have been a part of Frieze for two decades, showcasing a rich history. The fair presents a range of solo and group exhibitions, as well as innovative installations by acclaimed artists like Marguerite Humeau and Sophie Von Hellerman. The Focus section spotlights emerging galleries, generously supported by Stone Island. An exciting element, Artist-to-Artist, facilitates inspiring collaborations, where established artists propose solo exhibitions for emerging talents. Frieze London continues to embrace creativity with the Frieze Artist Award, Frieze Sculpture, and various key initiatives, promising a vibrant and engaging artistic experience.
Date: 11-15 October 2023. Location: The Regent's Park, London. Price: from £46. Book now.
Frieze Masters
Frieze Masters, in its 11th edition, is set to host over 130 galleries showcasing artworks spanning from the Palaeolithic era to the 20th century. Standout attractions include rare exhibits such as Frans Hals' ‘Portrait of a 50-Year-Old Man,’ which has not graced the public eye for 112 years, along with significant works by renowned artists like Rodin, Picasso, and Hambling. A new ‘Studio’ section has been introduced, placing emphasis on artistic creativity linked to the places of creation. Additionally, the engaging ‘Modern Women’ section is dedicated to solo presentations by talented women artists. The revered ‘Spotlight’ section brings attention to often overlooked works from the 1950s to the 1970s, while ‘Stand Out’ delves into the vibrancy and diverse uses of colour in contemporary art. An exciting addition is Frieze Music, featuring Loyle Carner and presented in collaboration with BMW.
Date: 11-15 October 2023. Location: The Regent's Park, London. Price: from £46. Book now.
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair returns to Somerset House, marking its monumental 11th edition this week and presenting its most extensive showcase to date. Boasting over 60 esteemed international exhibitors and an impressive lineup of 170+ artists hailing from 31 countries, the event weaves together a vibrant mosaic of African representation. At the heart of the fair lies the commissioned masterpiece ‘Illuminate the Light’ by the renowned artist Amine El Gotaibi in the Somerset House courtyard. This exceptional piece aims to showcase African diversity through intricate geometric sculptures and illumination. Collaborations with Christie's and Infiniment Coty Paris underscore the fair's significant global impact. In a bid for broader accessibility, the event will also be available online via Artsy throughout the entire month of October.
Date: 13-15 October 2023. Location: Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA. Price: from £25. Book now.
Women in Art Fair
The inaugural Women in Art Fair will take place at London's Mall Galleries this week, aiming to address gender imbalances in the art industry. It encompasses a booth-style art fair, a curated exhibition titled 'Unnatural Women' in the East Gallery, and an exhibition under the theme 'The World is a Family' in the North Gallery, showcasing diverse artists chosen through an open call. The fair introduces new participants like Black Circle Gallery, spotlighting Jamaican women artists, and features works by celebrated artists like Paula Rego and Tracey Emin. Additionally, 'WIAF Spotlight' highlights exceptionally talented women artists, and 'Unsafe Spaces' exhibit a variety of mediums. The fair aims to support and promote women artists, with all works available for purchase.
Date: 11-14 October 2023. Location: Mall Galleries. The Mall, London SW1.Price: from £5.50. Book now.
PAD London
In its 15th anniversary at Berkeley Square, PAD London, the pioneering international design fair, remains a cornerstone event during Frieze, hosting 62 galleries from 16 countries. Since its inception in 2007 by Patrick Perrin, it has steadfastly championed the evolution of design in various forms. This year's edition is particularly special, introducing 13 new exhibitors and presenting a diverse showcase of contemporary ceramics, commissioned pieces, and highlights from both 20th-century and contemporary design.
Date: 10 – 15 October 2023. Location: Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1. Price: from £25. Book now.
The Other Art Fair
The Other Art Fair by Saatchi Art returns to The Truman Brewery this week promising a lively and art-filled event for its 26th London Edition. This unique fair stands out with its immersive installations, live portrait sessions, DJs, and the chance to meet and purchase artwork from over 150 emerging talents. Notably, this edition will feature the exclusive guest artists God's Own Junkyard, renowned for their iconic neon creations, presenting an immersive installation showcasing pieces from the last seven decades. Additionally, the fair partners with charity: water for a special auction and features various artists like Heiyi Tam and Eleanor Cox. The Other Art Fair continues its mission to support emerging artists and provide a unique and inclusive art experience.
Date: 12 -15 October 2023. Location: The Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Ln, London E1 6QR. Price: from £9. Book now.
StART Art Fair
StART art fair celebrates its 10th anniversary at Saatchi Gallery, London, staying true to its ethos of presenting both emerging and established artists and galleries from around the world. Notable highlights include exhibitors like Premium Pages Gallery, sculptor Katya Emelyanova, and paper artist Lisa Lloyd. Special projects feature the work of Korean artist Doowon LEE and a showcase of former MA students from the Prince's Foundation School of Traditional Arts. The fair will also include a Rock n Roll exhibition and live painting by Team GB artist Ben Mosely.
Date: 11 - 15 October 2023. Location: Saatchi Gallery, King's Road, London, England, SW3 4LY. Price: from £15. Book now.
Frieze Sculptures
The Frieze Sculpture exhibition, held annually in The Regent’s Park alongside Frieze London and Frieze Masters, showcases 21 acclaimed international artists presenting their compelling artworks. Curated by Fatoş Üstek, a prominent figure in contemporary art, this year's exhibition delves into the duality of sculpture—its enduring nature and ephemeral essence—exploring themes like transformation, political empowerment, contemporary rituals, and social imaginings.
Click here to discover our pick of 7 must-see sculptures at this year's Frieze Sculpture.
Art Exhibitions
Transatlantic Connections: Caribbean Narratives in Contemporary Art
Transatlantic Connections: Caribbean Narratives in Contemporary Art is a curated group exhibition presented by 1-54 Presents during the 11th London edition of the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair at Christie’s, London. The exhibition brings together artists from the Caribbean and its diaspora, delving into cultural similarities across generations and geographies. This marks the second show by 1-54 Presents, showcasing diverse artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and more. The exhibition is rooted in the concept of Négritude, emphasising a collective identity despite diverse historical and sociological backgrounds. Additionally, it honours the 75th anniversary of MV Empire Windrush, recognising the significant contributions of Afro-Caribbean artists to global culture.
Date: 10 – 13 October 2023. Location: Christie’s London Christie’s
8 King St, London SW1Y 6QT. Website: christies.com.
Celebrating Picasso Today: Infinite Modernism
Almine Rech presents Celebrating Picasso Today: Infinite Modernism, a group show that commemorates Picasso's 50th death anniversary, showcasing contemporary artists influenced by Picasso's innovation. It features historical works by Peter Halley from 1980 and commissioned new works from contemporary artists, illustrating the impact of Picasso's legacy. Notable artists include Farah Atassi, Todd Bienvenu, Brian Calvin, Alejandro Cardenas, and Mimmo Rotella, among others.
Date: 10 October - 18 November 2023. Location: Almine Rech London, Broadbent House, Grosvenor Hill, London W1K 3JH. Website:alminerech.com.
Deutsche Bank presents African Bird Magic by Yinka Shonibare
Deutsche Bank collaborates with artist Yinka Shonibare CBE RA for African Bird Magic exhibition. The showcase features Shonibare's new works in various mediums, exploring the historical relationship between Africa and Europe, emphasising economic and political aspects. Shonibare's art is also part of the Deutsche Bank Collection, and he has supported the 2021 Frieze x Deutsche Bank Emerging Curators Fellowship.
Date: 11- 15 October 2023. Location: Deutsche Bank Wealth Management Lounges and online at Frieze Viewing Room.
Free The Wind, The Spirit, and The Sun
Stephen Friedman Gallery presents Free The Wind, The Spirit, and The Sun, a new exhibition by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, at their new London location on Cork Street, Mayfair. Shonibare, a long-term artist with the gallery, curates a diverse showcase of African and diasporic artists, featuring paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works. The exhibition embodies a celebration of nature and freedom, drawing inspiration from the dada spirit and African masquerades. Additionally, emerging and established artists from the African diaspora are featured in the curation, highlighting artistic freedom and creativity.
Date: 6 October – 11 November 2023. Location:Stephen Friedman Gallery, 5-6 Cork St, London W1S 3LQ.Website: stephenfriedman.com.
Living Memory
Living Memory at All Saints House features works by Louise Bourgeois and Gideon Rubin, exploring the human form, memory, and healing through art. Bourgeois channelled emotions and trauma into her sculptures, while Rubin's faceless characters evoke a sense of loss. The exhibition includes paintings by Rubin based on film stills and sculptures by Bourgeois from different periods, showcasing their fascination with the human form. The immersive experience includes an audio work by Nicolas Godin, enhancing the emotional depth of the exhibit.
Date: 28 September - 27 October 2023. Location: The All Saint's Chapel, 83 Margaret St, London W1W 8LH. Website: livingmemoryexhibition.co.uk
José Parlá: Phosphene
Cuban artist José Parlá's exhibition, Phosphene, at Ben Brown Fine Arts in London, explores urban space, memory, and energy. This exploration is deeply inspired by his near-death experience with Covid-19. The series reflects his lifelong dialogue with the city and musical influences. You can also visit Ben Brown Fine Arts at this year’s Frieze Masters (booth B13), where they will be showcasing influential Post-War artists. The exhibition will include works by renowned artists such as Frank Auerbach, Peter Doig, Anselm Kiefer, Claude and François-Xavier Lalanner, Miquel Barceló, and Andy Warhol.
Date: 11 October – 17 November 2023. Location: Ben Brown Fine Arts, 12 Brook's Mews, London W1K 4DG. Website: benbrownfinearts.com.
Art After Dark
Art After Dark: Autumn Edition is back during Frieze Week, showcasing a public art takeover and late openings of 30+ galleries in London's West End. It offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in free outdoor artworks and gain after-hours access to esteemed institutions like the National Portrait Gallery, The Royal Academy of Arts, and The National Gallery. This year's edition will feature an exclusive screening inspired by Marina Abramović's art on the iconic Piccadilly Lights, coinciding with her major exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts
Date: 12 and 13 October 2023. Website: artoflondon.co.uk
Like Paradise
Like Paradise is a thoughtfully curated group exhibition at Claridge’s ArtSpace curated by Ekow Eshun. The exhibit challenges the historical exclusion of black and brown people from narratives about nature, presenting them within natural landscapes as a deliberate departure from urban-focused representations. Artists explore diverse mediums like painting, mixed media, photography, film, and ceramics, many of which were crafted specifically for the exhibit.
Date: 5 October – 5 December 2023. Location: Claridge’s ArtSpace Brook’s Mews London, W1K 4HR. Website: claridges.co.uk.
Ian Davenport: Lake
British painter Ian Davenport's new exhibition at Waddington Custot features his largest wall-to-floor installation to date, showcasing both new and recent work. The centrepiece, Lake, is an immense painting with flowing lines of poured paint cascading down one wall and pooling across the gallery floor, allowing visitors to step into and become immersed in the artwork. Davenport's distinctive style, characterised by spilled paint, is taken to new heights in this expansive installation.
Date: 6 October – 11 November 2023. Location: Waddington Custot, 11 Cork St, London,W1S 3LT. Website: waddingtoncustot.com.
El Anatsui Turbine Hall Commission
Ghanaian artist El Anatsui, known for his innovative bottle-cap tapestries, will create the Hyundai Commission at Tate Modern's Turbine Hall. This upcoming bottlecap sculpture is set to be his most ambitious work yet. Anatsui's art spans diverse materials, embodying his concept of a 'non-fixed form.' He repurposes liquor bottle tops, symbolising a global industry tied to colonial trade routes, merging African aesthetics with abstraction's global history. The Turbine Hall Commission, in collaboration with Hyundai since 2015, has showcased notable site-specific installations by artists like Kara Walker and Olafur Eliasson.
Date: 10 October 2023 – 14 April 2024. Location: Turbine Hall,Bankside London SE1 9TG.
Daisy Collingridge: Splanchnic
Daisy Collingridge's exhibit Splanchnic at TJ Boulting delves into the human form using sculpture and photography. Her genderless characters made of hand-dyed jersey emphasise universal anatomy. Inspired by ancient vases and dance, her wall-based sculptures blend sculpture and painting, revealing the unseen beauty of the body. The exhibit also features a giant head sculpture, inviting viewers to experience the internal world.
Date: 6 October -11 November 2023. Location: TJ Boulting, 59 Riding House St, London, W1W 7EG. Price: Free. Website: tjboulting.com
Sullivan+Strumpf: Story, Place
Sullivan+Strumpf hosts an exhibition curated by Tony Albert and Jenn Ellis, featuring artists exploring land, ancestry, and belief. The show highlights indigenous and diasporic voices globally, showcasing diverse perspectives. The artworks delve into themes like earth, cosmos, ancestry, and resistance, offering a compelling narrative of cultural exploration and identity.
Date: 6 - 21 October 2023. Location: No 9 Cork Street, 9 Cork St, London W1S 3LL. Website: frieze.com.
वेणु [Venu] by Asim Waqif
The Hayward Gallery and the Bagri Foundation present वेणु [Venu], an immersive bamboo structure by Indian artist Asim Waqif, exploring urban space, ecology, and community. Combining bamboo and industrial metal, Waqif creates a large-scale installation inviting visitors to interact with bamboo-made musical instruments. Nature Morte Gallery, in collaboration with Hayward Gallery, will host a special breakfast event on 13 October 2023 (9am - 10am) during Frieze Week, providing an exclusive morning view of the installation with a special introduction by the curator. The exhibit will remain on display until 22 October 2023.
Location: Hayward Gallery Level 2 Terrace as, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX. Price: Free.
Click here to discover our pick of 36 art exhibitions to see this October 2023.
Talks
Frieze Masters Talks in collaboration with Dunhill
Dr. Nicholas Cullinan (Director of the National Portrait Gallery) returns to curate Frieze Masters Talks, exploring the connections between historical art and contemporary practice. In collaboration with Dunhill, the talks will take place in a dedicated auditorium at the fair, with speakers including artists Maggi Hambling, Thomas J. Price, Arlene Shechet, Rachel Whiteread and more. The conversations will be recorded as a podcast and made available on frieze.com and dunhill.com, as well as platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Thomas J Price in conversation with Gus Casely-Hayford (Director, V&A East).
Date: 11 October 2023. Time: 3pm.
Arlene Shechet in conversation with Sheena Wagstaff (Leonard A Lauder Chair of Modern and Contemporary Art, The MET until 2022)
Date: 12 October 2023. Time: Noon.
Rachel Whiteread in conversation with Briony Fer (art historian)
Date: 12th October 2023. Time: 3pm.Maggi Hambling, Sarah Lucas and Louisa Buck (journalist) in conversation
Date: 13 October 2023. Time: 3pm.
Mandy El Sayegh, Flavia Frigeri and Valerie Cassel Oliver (Sydney and Frances Lewis Family Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts) in conversation
Date:14 October 2023. Time: 3pm.
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair Talk Programme
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is set to host enlightening talks on the 13 and 14 October 2023. Engaging discussions will delve into various aspects, including African photography, creativity, and the profound influence of Black culture on artistic expression. These talks are crafted to encourage networking and meaningful dialogue among individuals within the art community.
African Photography Conversations on Selling and Collecting African Photography.
Date: 13 October 2023. Time: 2pm-3.30pm.
African Photography Conversations The Impact of Photography Competitions in the Photographic Landscape.
Date:13 October 2023. Time: 4pm - 5.30pm.
1-54 x The Missing Thread - Connections: A Conversation on Black Culture & Creative Expression.
Date:14 October 2023. Time: 2pm - 3.15pm.
1-54 x Moleskine Foundation - A Creativity Revival.
Date:14 October 2023. Time: 4pm - 5.30pm.
Each talk is scheduled to take place at the Screening Room, Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA. Click here to secure your spot for these enlightening talks.
Women In Art Fair: Fair Play
Join the Women In Art Fair on 13th October for an insightful discussion on pressing issues in women's art. The panel, comprised of industry experts with extensive experience, will delve into motivations, inspirations, and future opportunities and challenges for female artists. Panelists include Virginia Damtsa, Katrina Aleksa, Cynthia Corbett, and Elena Shchukina. The discussion will be chaired by Susan Mumford, the Founder of the Association of Women Art Dealers.
Date: Friday 13 October 2023.Time: 11:30 am.Location: Women in Art Fair, Mall Galleries, The Mall, London SW1. Price: Free to all ticket holders on 13 October 2023.
Infinite Ecologies Marathon: The Prelude
Infinite Ecologies Marathon: The Prelude is an all-day event gathering prominent figures in environmental thinking, aiming to address urgent questions and set the agenda for the Infinite Ecologies Marathon scheduled for July 2024. This upcoming event marks the ten-year anniversary of the Extinction Marathon and aims to empower agency in the current climate crisis, focusing on the critical aspects that need attention and remembrance. The prelude event brings together influential figures from various disciplines to engage in meaningful discussions and responses related to the pressing environmental challenges. Notable participants include Anohni, Marina Abramović, James Bridle, Cooking Sections, Brian Eno, Formafantasma, Kumi Naidoo, Yinka Shonibare, and many more.
Date: 14 October 2023. Time: Noon - 8.30pm. Location: 22nd Serpentine Pavilion by Lina Ghotmeh. Price: from £10/£7 all day. £5 afternoon only. Book now.
Food
St John Bread and Wine
St. John Bread and Wine, located near London's Spitalfields Market, offers a relaxed dining experience compared to its sister restaurant. The menu celebrates traditional British cuisine and is renowned for its distinctive dishes, such as Crispy Pig's Skin with Chicory and Sorrel, Salt Cod with Leek and Watercress, and Plaice with Tartare Sauce. A visit wouldn't be complete without savouring the signature Eccles cakes paired with Lancashire cheese. The atmosphere is stylish and understated, there is also the option to bring your own wine for a small corkage fee.
Location: 94-96 Commercial Street, Spitalfields, London, E1 6LZ. Website: stjohnrestaurant.com.
Sessions Arts Club
Sessions Arts Club, nestled in the historic Old Sessions House, epitomises London's trendiest dining. It marries history and art, showcasing contemporary artworks in a former courthouse. Chef Florence Knight crafts a seasonal European menu, blending British, French, and Italian flavours. Must-tries include Lovage with goat’s curd, Hake with courgette, and their delightful almond cake. This fusion of history, art, and delicious cuisine offers an unforgettable dining experience. Reservations are a must due to its popularity.
Location: Old Sessions House, 24 Clerkenwell Green, London EC1R 0NA, UK. Website: sessionsartsclub.com
Rita’s Dining
Rita's, led by Chef Gabriel Pryce, blends American and British culinary traditions, focusing on seasonal produce. Situated in a Grade II listed building in Soho since September 2021, they emphasise low intervention wines and organic spirit cocktails. Rita's is making a return to Frieze Art Fair this week. Their Frieze London menu features a diverse array of dishes, and during the fair, they will offer fresh, gluten-free tostadas, salads, and their renowned Cubano sandwiches. This will be complemented by a cocktail menu and seasonal juices.
Location: 49 Lexington Street, Soho, London W1F 9AP and at Frieze London. Website: ritasdining.com.
Café Deco
Café Deco in Bloomsbury, founded by Anna Tobias and the team from 40 Maltby Street, is a relaxed venue featuring a bar, restaurant, and wine shop. The menu is straightforward but delicious, with a thoughtful wine selection from small-scale growers and producers. A visit promises an enjoyable time guided by an experienced and proficient team. Don’t miss out on their daily offerings, which, depending on the season, are conveniently listed on a blackboard.
Location: Café Deco, 43 Store Street London, WC1E 7DB. Website: cafe-deco.co.uk.
Sollip
Sollip, a hidden gem near the Shard in London Bridge, offers a sophisticated Korean-inspired dining experience. Helmed by a skilled husband-and-wife chef duo, their fusion of European techniques with Korean flavours results in heartfelt and polished dishes. The restaurant features a lunch menu with about 4 dishes and a dinner tasting menu with around 7 dishes, all crafted using seasonal and local produce, reflecting their Korean heritage. The contemporary ambiance and curated wine list add to the unique dining experience at Sollip.
Location: Sollip,Unit 1, 8 Melior St, London SE1 3QP. Website: sollip.co.uk.
Spring x Heckfield Place
Spring returns to Frieze Masters for the third consecutive year in collaboration with Heckfield Place. This partnership epitomises a distinctive dining experience by harmonising London's cultural epicentre with Hampshire's country house hotel. Led by Skye Gyngell, both venues prioritise sustainability and exceptional ingredients. Heckfield Place, nestled in a sprawling 438-acre estate, seamlessly melds a luxury hotel with a Georgian family home. On the other hand, Spring showcases Gyngell's celebrated ingredient-focused cuisine in Somerset House. This collaboration exemplifies sustainable dining and sophisticated culinary styles from both locales in an intimate setting for diners to relish.
Date: 11 - 15 October 2023. Location: Frieze Masters, The Regent’s Park (Gloucester Green Entrance), London, NW1 4HA. Website: frieze.com.
Food at Frieze
In addition to the collaboration between Spring and Heckfield Place and Jikoni at Frieze London, Frieze London and Frieze Masters will, throughout the week, host other London eateries such as Petersham Nurseries, Rita’s, BAO, Yalumba Wine Bar, and Company Drinks. New additions to the lineup include Maison François, a Parisian brasserie, and Fallow, a sustainable eatery, as well as SAYURI, a matcha bar at Frieze London. Debuting at Frieze Masters is Dumplings’ Legend, while returning favourites like Ham Yard Bar & Restaurant will also be present. Gail’s Bakery will operate cafes at both fairs.
Website: frieze.com.
Click here to explore our curated selection of 14 exceptional dining spots during Frieze London Week 2023.