VISION OF BEAUTY

DANIEL SYRETT, ARTIST AND FOUNDER OF ONLINE RUNWAY GALLERY, SHARES HIS UNIQUE APPROACH TO SHOWCASING ART

Owning a piece of contemporary and affordable art has never been easier, thanks to the online Runway Gallery. Since its launch in 2017, it’s continued to grow and now showcases 24 talented artists from across the world. Artist and founder Daniel Syrett, whose work also features, tells us about his vision for the gallery and the new members set to join.

My background in the fashion industry

is essential to understanding the concept behind Runway Gallery. It’s been a big part of my life and career, so creating a fashionfocused gallery seemed like the natural thing for me to do. There’s been much discussion in the art world as to whether fashion belongs in the arts. This sounds ridiculous, because it absolutely does.

The prerequisite of Runway Gallery art is beauty.

The next is what I call the extraordinary. Finally, quality – every artist featured on the site is of an exceptionally high standard. Instagram has been influential in my search for new artists. They include the likes of Bruce Atherton, formerly the portrait painter at the Vatican; Pandemonia, a six-foot inflatable blonde and Sue Dray, who used to be a lecturer at the London College of Fashion.

Having a physical place to showcase artwork is important.

People are prepared to spend a lot of money on the Internet for art, but they also want to see it. I feel extremely lucky to be the curator at Blacks private members’ club in Soho. It’s a beautiful and historic venue: the perfect backdrop for the artists’ work. It’s offered great exposure over the last few years, and continues to do so.

We’re so much more than just a gallery.

As well as hosting regular supper clubs, we are working on a collection of interior items including rugs, cushions and furniture, so there will be lots to look out for over the next year or so.

The next step is going international.

The gallery has flourished and, as a result, I’m now working with artists from all over the world. Newcomers include Evi Antonio who has recently won the It’s Art Call competition in London and Bay Backner who is based in Valencia. We will be taking over Gallery Red in Mallorca next year, which is exciting. We’re also the official gallery of Fashion Scout, one of the largest showcases for emerging designers at London Fashion Week. Browse and buy stylish, affordable artwork from contemporary artists at runwaygallery.com