In a compelling profile released this week by the New Yorker, emerging artist Jadé Fadojutimi articulated her motivations behind leaving the Pippy Houldsworth Gallery, the esteemed London-based establishment that significantly propelled her career, to join the illustrious mega-gallery Gagosian, known for representing some of the world’s leading contemporary artists.
The strategic decision, she divulged to Rebecca Mead, was intended to secure more extensive resources and opportunities to further her artistic vision. Fadojutimi, who is now 31, reflected on her journey and claimed she had “outgrown” the Pippy Houldsworth Gallery by the time she signed her deal with Gagosian in 2022, signaling her readiness to embrace larger horizons in the art world.
By the time of her transition, Fadojutimi had begun a remarkable ascent in the art scene. In October 2021, her painting fetched an astonishing £1.2 million ($1.6 million) at Phillips in London—an extraordinary achievement for a painter who was not even 30 years old. This astounding sale surpassed the original estimate by an impressive 15-fold. (As of this year, her auction record impressively escalates to $2 million, showcasing her rapid rise in value and visibility.)
Her remarkable success had not gone unnoticed, particularly as Houldsworth had “swiftly placed her work with collectors and in museums, in addition to connecting her with other gallerists internationally,” according to Mead. Fadojutimi’s talent was showcased in a solo exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art Miami in 2021, and her presence was further solidified by her participation in the prestigious 2022 Venice Biennale, which opened shortly before the announcement of her new partnership with Gagosian.
Some industry observers expressed concern that she had made her move too quickly in pursuit of success. Gisela Capitain, a German dealer who continues to represent Fadojutimi, recounted in the New Yorker profile that she cautioned her about the “different economic situation” that comes with such a significant leap. Yet, Capitain noted, “she was sure that she could handle it,” reflecting Fadojutimi’s confidence in her abilities and career trajectory.
Fadojutimi remains with Gagosian, where she recently unveiled a series of new paintings at its prominent New York location. Staying true to her innovative style, these works are not confined to traditional mediums; they embrace both acrylic and oil paints. The large-scale pieces burst with vibrant colors and are characterized by gestural strokes, featuring vaguely figurative imagery that evokes the essence of flora and diverse landscapes.
**Interview with Jadé Fadojutimi: Embracing New Horizons in the Art World**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Jadé. Your recent transition from Pippy Houldsworth Gallery to Gagosian has generated quite a buzz. Can you share what motivated this significant move?
**Jadé Fadojutimi:** Thank you for having me! My decision to join Gagosian was ultimately about growth. I felt that I had outgrown the Pippy Houldsworth Gallery. They were instrumental in launching my career, but I wanted access to greater resources and opportunities to expand my artistic vision. Gagosian is renowned for representing some of the leading contemporary artists, and being part of that environment felt like the right next step for me.
**Editor:** It sounds like a pivotal moment in your career. You’ve seen remarkable success so early in your journey, especially with your painting selling for £1.2 million in 2021. How has that success shaped your perspective on your art?
**Jadé Fadojutimi:** That sale was definitely a turning point. It was both exhilarating and overwhelming. It made me realize the potential of my work and pushed me to explore new themes and techniques. I have a love for vibrant colors and anime influences, and that experience gave me the confidence to fully embrace my unique voice as an artist.
**Editor:** You mentioned in your profile about wanting to embrace larger horizons. What specific goals do you hope to achieve with Gagosian?
**Jadé Fadojutimi:** I’m excited about the potential for collaboration and exposure on a global scale. I want to engage with diverse audiences and bring my work to new places. I also hope to take on larger projects that can challenge me creatively. My ultimate goal is to develop a body of work that resonates with people and conveys deeper narratives, transcending traditional boundaries.
**Editor:** It certainly seems like you’re poised for great things. Lastly, how do you envision your artistic journey evolving in the years to come?
**Jadé Fadojutimi:** I want to continue pushing the limits of my work while exploring new mediums and formats. I’m also keen on community engagement, perhaps through workshops or installations that involve others. The aim is to create art that sparks dialogue and inspires others, as my journey has been inspired by those who came before me.
**Editor:** Thank you, Jadé. We look forward to seeing where your artistic exploration takes you next.
**Jadé Fadojutimi:** Thank you! I’m excited for what’s ahead.
