By Brittany Knupper
Taking the first step to becoming an art collector can often be a harrowing experience. Frequently, choosing the right piece and the right gallery feels intimidating.
However, Art Angels gallery founders Kat Emery and Jacquelin Napal wanted to create a space that flips those notions on their head. When you step into their Los Angeles or Miami locations, you become immersed in a space full of bright colors. Most importantly, you feel warmth.
The founders explain: “In the gallery, we like to curate an evocative and sometimes provocative experience… We want to create an inviting and immersive experience where all collectors are welcome.”
The “Anti-Gallery” Gallery
The dynamic duo met while working at a previous gallery where Jacquelin served as director. Instantly, they connected and realized they were a strong team. Together, they saw a missing niche.
Their vision was to create a space dubbed “the anti-gallery gallery.” Specifically, they wanted a place where artists’ careers could grow. Furthermore, they wanted to service any need for their collectors, whether novice or experienced.
This strategy has proved successful. In only a handful of years, the company has grown rapidly.
Reflecting on their start, they share: “Our first show was a one-night pop-up… The space was an empty shell and in 48 hours we moved everything in… We have done everything and worn every hat as we have grown.”
diverse Exhibitions: From Dargas to Flore
This year alone, the Art Angels gallery has showcased several solo exhibitions. The roster includes artists like Russell Young, David Yarrow, Nick Veasey, and Mike Dargas.
One perfect example of the gallery’s offering is Mike Dargas’ Healing Beauty series. His huge photorealistic paintings of women dripping with honey are bold and provocative. The artist explains that his intent is to explore “the fragility and feminine aspects of identity.”
Conversely, Flore is another artist who fits the gallery perfectly. Despite being antithetical in style to Dargas, Flore possesses exactly what Art Angels looks for. His pieces are arresting and thought-provoking. Consequently, they grace the collections of both seasoned investors and new buyers.
Pop Culture and The Future
As pop culture influences fine art, Art Angels gallery regularly collaborates with different industries. Notably, they utilize social media outlets like Instagram to make fine art accessible to a wider audience.
The founders note that the fusion between industries is bigger than ever. Examples include collaborations between Flore and Hublot, or Louis Vuitton and Jeff Koons. Always looking to lead, Art Angels pushes the envelope at the forefront of expression.
Expansion to Miami
With the launch of their Miami location in July, Kat Emery and Jacquelin Napal are poised for an art world takeover. The official grand opening of Art Angels Miami is set for December 5th. Additionally, the gallery will exhibit at CONTEXT Art Miami during Basel Week.
Ultimately, this gallery is a must for collectors. Unpretentious but sophisticated, it stands as an example of what modern galleries should be.
