loophole lists two artists in their highlights of london art fair | london

Shinichi Sawada at Jennifer Lauren Gallery. Photo by Mark Cocksedge, courtesy of London Art Fair

The 37th edition of the London Art Fair brought together over 130 galleries globally, including 18 international exhibitors. Arts magazine Loophole highlights their selection at the London Art Fair 2025 of a dynamic range of voices, emphasizing the practices of Indigenous, diaspora, and self-taught artists. These artists challenge conventions and provoke important dialogues through their practices, exploring themes of identity, tradition, and the complexities of global interconnectedness. Their works defy conventional boundaries, offering nuanced reflections on cultural preservation, transformation, and the ongoing negotiation of heritage in an ever-evolving world. Two artists from my booth within Encounters were featured in the online magazine:

Japanese artist Makoto Okawa (1976-2016), known for his playful and mischievous approach to art, is celebrated for his felt dolls, or "Makoots," which embody a range of emotions and whimsical forms. Also showcased by Jennifer Lauren Gallery, Shinichi Sawada is a self-taught Japanese artist known for his striking ceramic works, which often feature intricate and textured 'thorns' applied to the surface of each piece.

Loophole is an independent platform dedicated to thoughtful and balanced writing on art and culture. It was born from the need to give visibility to underrepresented voices across the global art scene.