Feature

Paris Photo Los Angeles: Directors Q&A

29 Apr 2015

by ArtRabbit

Paris Photo, the world’s most celebrated photographic art fair, returns to the Paramount Pictures Studios in LA for its third US edition. Collectors and enthusiasts of photography can experience over 80 leading galleries and art book dealers from 17 countries world-wide.

ArtRabbit had the pleasure to get the inside scoop from Artistic Director Christoph Wiesner and Director Florence Bourgeois.

Q: Paris Photo has distinguished itself as a fair for photography, can you talk about why photography as a medium is so specialised for both artists and collectors?

Florence: Photography is a medium practiced by more and more contemporary artists today. Over half of Paris Photo exhibitors are not specialized in photography. This is a sign of the solidity of the medium and it's important status in the art market. Often photography is the gateway medium for budding collectors looking to start a collection.

Q: Being in Los Angeles and at Paramount Pictures Studio must be an interesting setting for the presentation of fine art. Can you discuss how Hollywood and its history effects the mood of the fair?

Florence: Hollywood is a city that has a long history with the construction of image-based art, both still and moving. Paramount Pictures Studios is a ideal location in that it lends itself so freely to the exhibition of art. The unique ambiance of the studio soundstages and the movie sets of the New York Street backlot definitely create a mood for the Fair that is unlike any other. The Fair has been hailed as one of the most enjoyable art fair experiences today.

Q: What makes collecting photography unique to other forms of contemporary art and what is the best advice you could give to a collector new to purchasing photographic work?

Christoph: Collecting photography or collecting art is about following your instincts and getting to know the work. If one is interested in collecting, the Paris Photo fair is an ideal place to start as you will find a panorama of the best of what is available in the market today from a wide range of international exhibitors (over 17 countries are represented at this year's fair). And talk to the galleries and get informed. They are onsite to inform and advise both aspiring and mature collectors. Also over 100 artists will be at the fair to sign their published works. It is a great opportunity to meet them get inspired to find out more about their work.

Q: Can you highlight two works that will be exhibited at the fair. One that is an emerging photographer and one that is more established?

Christoph: We have so many great works available at the Fair this year that it would be unfair to select just two. Galleries will be presenting new series, never-before seen or rarely seen exhibited work, vintage pieces and new formats. We will be presenting over 30 solo shows this year dedicating to the work of one major artist. It is an excellent opportunity to really grasp their work. We are also highlighting emerging galleries this year and up and coming talent with the new INTRODUCING! Award that will honor the work of one California art student. Don't miss out.