Can an art gallery be inspired by a speakeasy? Is it really cheeky if I say that this Pace location is a little bit Brooklyn speakeasy-esque? I hope I don't get into trouble for saying that...
Pace, is a commercial contemporary art gallery with locations in NYC, Beijing, London and Hong Kong. They are amongst the leading names in commercial art and represent a huge variety of internationally renowned contemporary artists. They operate two locations in London, with Lexington being the smaller and more clandestine space and Burlington Gardens the larger and more imposing one.
Tucked away on Lexington off Brewer St, on the side street off Bill's Restaurant, this gallery is a ring the doorbell affair. Ring the one on the right for the door to be opened and head upstairs to the first floor. There's an elevator for those who need it.
There is a receptionist who will greet you, through whom you may purchase catalogues and other literature. The accompanying text for the exhibition will be printed out on A4 paper and is free to take.
Generally I will come to Pace if they are exhibiting a Chinese artist's work as that is my area of specialty and, it has to be said, also Pace's forte. However they do exhibit a wide variety of works from artists all over the world so it's a good idea to get on their mailing list and stay up to date on what's going on. Exhibitions alternate every 4-6 weeks so there is always something new to see and you have to be on the ball.
Not to be missed for those venturing outside of the stock Tate/National Galleries/V&A arena. Keep an open mind will you? Best to have a subscription to ArtReview handy. read more