Social Life magazine talks with Rick Friedman, founder and director of Art Hamptons
KEVIN BERLIN: Tell us about the sixth edition of Art Hamptons.
RICK FRIEDMAN: ArtHamptons is a Hamptons celebration of the reality that we live in such a wonderful, creative community with 2,000 active artists on the East End and thousands of art patrons, art lovers, and collectors. We can provide attendees a broad spectrum of high caliber fine art from 15 countries, and we offer rare treasures for every budget level. It’s a great place to fall in love, to get inspired, to get active. We are packed with special fun events, ranging from ArtPolo@ArtHamptons, from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday in the abutting polo field, to our Hamptons Bohemia meets Bushwick Bohemia theme. On Sunday is a fête for members of young art collectors committees from six New York museums. We will be honoring Arts Patron of the Year, Edward Albee. And this year, we have a world-class art café, with internationally ranked chefs and enjoyable indoor and outdoor dining. Parking is easy on our 95 acres, with every valet option. This is why many of my friends call it their most anticipated and fun event of the summer season. And it is just $25 for the day. You can’t beat that.
KB: What input does ArtHamptons have on the artworks being presented by the galleries?
RF: Frequently we will strategize and even intercede in the final decision about which two or three artists from each dealer will be featured. From past fairs, we have ideas about what is more marketable in the Hamptons. We note the history of what sold in the past, and who is coming, and what they may be looking to acquire for their homes.
KB. Why do galleries choose ArtHamptons?
RF: Galleries choose ArtHamptons because we have a six-year track record of generating capacity turnouts and millions of dollars in art sales for its exhibitors. Word gets around. While things are traditionally slow in the summer months in the art world, the ability to get in front of 12,000 high-energy, art-savvy, and wealthy thought-leaders is quite compelling. I think the dealers are also impressed by the quality and quantity of the fairgoers, the fair’s production standards, and the lineup of special VIP events. And major press coverage.
