A major shift in the global art fair landscape has occurred. Hollywood mogul Ari Emanuel has acquired the Frieze art fair and media group from Endeavor for nearly $200m.
The purchase is set to close in late 2025. It includes seven global art fairs, including Frieze New York, Los Angeles and Seoul – as well as Frieze magazine. Emanuel’s new global events company (so far without name) – backed by investors like Apollo Global Management and RedBird Capital Partners – is positioning Frieze as a “cornerstone” for its expanding events platform.
Ari Emanuel (middle)
This acquisition follows Endeavor’s decision to divest non-core assets after its $25bn sale to Silver Lake. Despite the shift in ownership, Frieze’s leadership team, including CEO Simon Fox, will remain in place, ensuring continuity. Fox commented: “With the support of new ownership, we’re well placed to accelerate our creativity, collaboration and growth.”
Emanuel is a longtime supporter of the Frieze brand. He expressed his excitement at the acquisition: “Frieze has always been a source of inspiration for me – both professionally and personally.”
The sale also comes at a time when the global art market is recalibrating. Sales are declining and uncertainty is growing, driven by factors like Donald Trump’s tariffs on art. Frieze’s transition under Emanuel’s leadership marks a crucial moment for the company as it adapts to these new dynamics in the art world.
Preparing for Frieze Art Fair, Regents Park, London
President Trump’s administration has imposed a universal 10% tariff on all imports, with additional “reciprocal” tariffs ranging from 11% to 50% applied to goods from approximately 60 countries.
Artworks, including paintings, sculptures and antiques over 100 years old, are generally exempt from these tariffs. However, the application of these exemptions has become complex. For instance, goods from countries like China are subject to a 54% tariff, while those from the UK face a 10% tariff. This has led to confusion among international art dealers.
The art market is experiencing significant disruptions as a result of these tariffs. Collectors are reportedly cancelling purchases, auction houses are rescheduling sales and uncertainty prevails in the trade.
The art market faces continued changes, but Emanuel’s acquisition could signal a new era for Frieze. The investment could provide it with the tools and leadership necessary to navigate turbulent times – and expand its influence in global culture.
Source: www.exhibitionworld.co.uk
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