Interview: Claes Nordenhake

Can you tell a little about how you work as a member of the Art Basel Committee?

It is very hard work (laugh). Without exaggeration, I think I can say that every gallery in the world wants to join this fair. So our role is to pick the best, the most individualistic and the strongest of these galleries. This process is very hard because we look at all different kinds of criteria. We have over a 1000 galleries who applies, and these 1000 galleries would probably be accepted without hesitation at other large fairs, so already at this point we have a huge challenge.

What criteria are you considering when you pick the galleries?

It is a question of quality and past exhibitions. It is also important that it is a privately owned gallery, and it is very important that the gallery doesn’t have any close connection with any auction house. There are of cause several objective criteria that we follow, but sometimes it is also a gut feeling.

Do you ask galleries to apply?

If I find a gallery that I find interesting, I will say to this gallery that they must apply for the fair.

Does this mean anything in the process of selection that you asked them to apply?

I think so. But as a member of this committee I am always scouting around for new talents that I think should have a chance here.

You must spend a lot of your time on the road, seeing that you also have your own gallery?

I use a terrible lot of time travelling. To become member of the jury, you must be part of this world. This is not for the artists or the museums, but this Commission is only for the galleries and the gallery owners.

Has there been any change in the way the jury works after the change of directors?

No

Thank you