Jul 06 • Questions for • Words by
Limna
Q&A with Sergio Sancho, Director of CAN Ibiza
From 13 to 17 July 2022, Ibiza will host the very first edition of Contemporary Art Now, a brand-new art fair that blends the excitement of the contemporary art scene with the easy-going attitude of the Mediterranean. With its small yet carefully curated line-up of internationally renowned galleries and artists, the event promises to bring fresh new art to fresh new audiences. We talked to Director Sergio Sancho and got his tips and insights on the coolest artists to look out for!
How did you get started doing what you do?
I really started collecting in the art world more than 18 years ago. I worked in communications and advertising and little by little my hobby and passion became my way of life. Six years ago I decided to leave everything behind and launch an art fair in Madrid: UVNT, during the art week and later Urvanity Projects to carry out cultural projects linked to private entities. This year we launched Contemporary Art Now (CAN) in Ibiza. A different fair that fits perfectly in the line of work we have been doing in recent years.
What’s something you wish you knew when you first started in the art world?
I would have loved to know many things in advance. I don’t come from the art world and that’s exactly why I’ve always wanted to bring it closer to the people. Spain lacks a more powerful collecting base and one of my premises has been to try to bring art closer to young people and make them lose their fear to collect. Trying to make them participate in an exciting world.
Urvanity Projects, collaboration with Antonyo Marest.
What’s the first artwork you ever bought?
A work by Julio Falagan (⚖️). A Spanish artist with a very particular language. I fell in love at first sight when I was just 26 years old.
What’s the most misunderstood aspect of the art market in your opinion?
There is a very elitist vision and I think there is much more behind it. It’s a passion but also a commitment and confidence in many artists starting their careers.
Which artist are you currently really excited about?
Jenny Brosinski (⚖️) has me crazy and the Spanish artists Ana Barriga(⚖️), Grip Face (⚖️) and Marria Pratts (⚖️).
“SAUDADE 01/158” installation view at SC Gallery. David Oliver (Grip Face).
What’s the last art-related Instagram post you liked or an account you followed?
Nadia Lee Cohen’s (⚖️) photographs of Kim Kardashian.
What upcoming exhibitions are you looking forward to?
An Erik Parker (⚖️) retrospective just opened at the CAC in Malaga that I don’t want to miss.
Erik Parker “Easy Freedom” installation view at CAC Malaga.
Tell us about an artist who should be getting more attention.
Joe Cheetham (⚖️). I think he’s an artist yet to be discovered.
What’s the best piece of art-world advice you’ve ever been given?
In the art world, never do what is expected.
How do you (or your clients) gain confidence when buying art?
I think you have to be attentive and follow the trajectories of the artists, but there is also a point of instinct or personal bet of each one that is difficult to explain.
Joe Cheetham, Something for the weekend #2, 2021, Spray paint on canvas, 180 x 260 cm.
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