Frieze New York 2025 once again proved that contemporary art is more than visuals — it’s about market dynamics, bold narratives, and cultural energy. This year’s edition impressed with major sales, headline auctions, and a rich program of side events around Manhattan. Below, we recap three key highlights of Frieze Week.
Jeff Koons dominates opening day
The art world buzzed on day one as Jeff Koons’ “Hulk (Tubas)” sold for $3 million at Gagosian. This striking sculpture, resembling an inflated toy but forged from stainless steel, reaffirmed the resilience of the art market. Other galleries followed suit: White Cube sold a Tracey Emin work for $1.59 million, while Perrotin sold out Claire Tabouret’s paintings before the day ended.
The return of Holly Solomon – an iconic collection at Bonhams
While Frieze took center stage, Bonhams drew attention with the announcement of an auction featuring the Holly Solomon Collection — a legendary trove of conceptual and post-minimalist art. With pieces by Warhol, Mapplethorpe, Nam June Paik, and Laurie Anderson, this auction is not only a market event but a cultural moment that honors a foundational figure in 20th-century art.
Art and flavor – how to experience Frieze Week in full
Frieze is also a lifestyle. Beyond the booths, NYC offered a wealth of artistic and culinary delights. MoMA hosted Hilma af Klint’s spiritual sketches, The Met showcased “Sargent and Paris,” and Guggenheim unveiled Rashid Johnson’s installations. For rest and inspiration, Le Dive (LES), Le Pavillon (Midtown), and Bar Bastion (SoHo) offered the perfect ambiance for collectors and creatives alike.
Frieze New York 2025 was more than a fair — it was a full-bodied celebration of contemporary culture. This year emphasized strong names, iconic returns, and the rich lifestyle that makes New York the living stage of art. At Artanabo, we’ll keep reporting on the art world’s most vibrant currents — stay with us!