Get ready for a new kind of art fair, because the Felix Art Fair in Los Angeles is officially shaking things up. Starting in 2027, they're ditching the traditional, sprawling hotel room setup for something far more intimate, and frankly, much less likely to involve a 30-minute wait for a lift.
That's right, the infamous elevator lines at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel are apparently a thing of the past. All exhibits will now be consolidated into the hotel's two-story cabana complex, which, if you think about it, is a pretty brilliant move. Co-founder Dean Valentine observed that everyone loved the poolside vibe anyway, so why not just lean all the way into it? Less schlep, more art.
This isn't just a logistical tweak; it's a philosophical shift. Co-founder Mills Morán, who recently left his gallery to focus on Felix full-time (now that's dedication), admits they weren't entirely happy with the old visitor experience. Now, they're aiming for something closer to a studio visit than a glorified trade show.
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Start Your News DetoxNo More Elevator Jams, More Direct Art
While the physical footprint is condensing, the fair still expects to host around the same number of galleries, possibly even more. Smaller galleries might snag hallway spots, keeping the exhibitor count over 60. So, plenty of art, just without the vertical transportation drama.
But the biggest change? Felix is actively encouraging galleries to feature solo artists or just two artists per booth. This is a stark contrast to the usual art fair free-for-all, where a single booth can feel like a group exhibition on fast-forward. Valentine's take is that the traditional fair model has become overwhelming for everyone involved. He wants the focus to snap back to the artists and their actual work.
And here's where it gets truly interesting: they're opening applications directly to artists, even those without gallery representation. Imagine that. Valentine even mused that he'd be thrilled if half the fair eventually showcased artists representing themselves. It's a bold move, aiming to cut out some of the middlemen and give artists a more direct platform.
In a world where art fairs often feel like a high-stakes scavenger hunt, Felix is trying to make it feel a bit more like a relaxed, poolside conversation. Which, considering the current art market, is probably exactly what everyone needs.
