Frieze (magazine)

Frieze (magazine). Frieze is a leading international magazine dedicated to contemporary art and culture, founded in London in 1991. It is published eight times a year and has become a central voice in the global art discourse, known for its critical writing, artist profiles, and coverage of major exhibitions. The magazine's influence extends beyond print through its organization of prestigious art fairs, including the Frieze Art Fair in London and Frieze New York, and its digital platforms.

History and founding

Frieze was founded in 1991 by Amanda Sharp and Matthew Slotover, who were later joined by the writer and curator Tom Gidley in the early stages. The magazine was named after the Frieze of Parnassus on the Albert Memorial in London, reflecting its initial connection to the city's cultural landscape. Its launch coincided with a pivotal moment in the British art scene, preceding the rise of the Young British Artists (YBAs) and the opening of Tate Modern. Early contributors included influential critics and curators such as Jörg Heiser and Jennifer Higgie, who helped establish its rigorous editorial voice. The publication quickly gained a reputation for its intelligent engagement with emerging artists and international art movements, distinguishing itself from more traditional art periodicals.

Content and editorial focus

The magazine's content focuses on contemporary visual art, featuring in-depth reviews of exhibitions at major institutions like the Museum of Modern Art and the Stedelijk Museum, as well as profiles of significant artists such as Mona Hatoum and Steve McQueen. It publishes critical essays, interviews, and columns that address broader cultural and political themes within the art world. A key feature is its commitment to commissioning new writing and criticism, often from prominent figures like Dave Hickey and Laura Mulvey. The editorial scope is genuinely international, with regular coverage of art scenes from Berlin to Beijing, and it has expanded to include significant digital content through its website and podcasts, maintaining its relevance in a rapidly evolving media environment.

Frieze Art Fair

The Frieze Art Fair was launched in 2003 in Regent's Park, London, by the magazine's founders, Sharp and Slotover, in collaboration with the Arts Council England. It rapidly became one of the world's most important commercial art events, coinciding with the Frieze London contemporary fair. The fair features leading galleries such as Gagosian, Hauser & Wirth, and White Cube, and includes major curated sections, artist commissions, and a talks program. Its success led to the launch of Frieze New York on Randall's Island in 2012, further cementing the brand's global footprint. The fairs are known for their distinctive architecture and for being pivotal market and networking events within the international art calendar.

Frieze Masters

Frieze Masters was established in 2012 as a sister fair to Frieze London, also held in Regent's Park. It is dedicated to historical art, spanning from ancient times to the late 20th century, and is curated by Victoria Siddall. The fair encourages a dialogue between old and new masters, with galleries like Agnew's and Pace Gallery presenting works by artists ranging from Rembrandt to Louise Bourgeois. A defining feature is its "Spotlight" section, which focuses on pioneering solo presentations of 20th-century artists. Frieze Masters has been critically acclaimed for its scholarly approach and elegant design, attracting a different but overlapping audience to the contemporary fair and broadening the brand's cultural reach.

Influence and reception

Frieze is widely regarded as one of the most influential publications in the contemporary art world, shaping critical debate and trends. Its expansion into organizing fairs created a powerful synergy between media and event-based platforms, influencing the model of modern art fairs globally. The brand's activities have significantly impacted the cultural economies of London and New York, and it has received numerous awards for its publishing and fair organization. Critics have occasionally noted its commercial ties, but it maintains a reputation for editorial independence and high-quality journalism. Its digital expansion and global initiatives continue to affirm its position as a central pillar of international art culture. Category:Art magazines Category:Publications established in 1991 Category:British art