Arash Shahnavaz is the founder of Kei London Visual Art Agency, where he combines his background in engineering, business, and the arts. With MSc degrees in Process Engineering from the University of Leeds and Business Management from Aston University, Arash has worked in roles across engineering, business development, and sales & marketing. This diverse experience allows him to bring a practical, strategic approach to the art world. Through Kei London, he focuses on supporting artists, promoting diversity, and integrating art into various settings, with a mission to foster growth and meaningful connections within the creative community.
- What inspired you to establish Kei London Art Agency, and how has the journey been so far?
The inspiration for establishing Kei London emerged from a passion for combining creative expression with structured expertise, fostering connections among diverse artistic voices and driving meaningful dialogue through contemporary art. I wanted to build a platform that wasn't just about exhibiting art but about fostering genuine, impactful connections within the creative community. From the outset, the vision was to showcase bold, thought-provoking work that transcends boundaries and engages audiences on multiple levels. The journey has been nothing short of transformative-filled with challenges that push us to grow, and successes that reaffirm our mission. We've built a thriving network of artists, collectors, and creative professionals. It's been humbling to see Kei London evolve into a recognised name, bringing art closer to people's hearts and sparking conversations that matter.
- What do you think sets Kei London apart from other art agencies in today's competitive market?
Kei London's unique edge lies in our commitment to innovation and fostering genuine connections. We're not just curators of art but connectors of people and ideas. Our events and exhibitions push the boundaries of what an art experience can be-transformative, multi-sensory, and deeply immersive. We always ensure a fresh perspective and a space for bold artistic experimentation by offering a mix of emerging and established talent. Moreover, we focus on accessibility and inclusivity, giving a platform to voices that might otherwise be overlooked. Our collaborative ethos extends beyond just showcasing works; we build lasting relationships and create a supportive community where artists can flourish.
- Can you walk us through your process for identifying and curating artists to represent?
Identifying and curating artists at Kei London is a blend of instinct, research, and conversation. It begins with spotting talent that resonates, artists who push boundaries and evoke emotion through their work. We look for a strong narrative, technical skill, and a unique vision that speaks to contemporary issues while maintaining a timeless quality. Once we identify potential candidates, we engage in meaningful conversations to understand their values, inspirations, and aspirations. It's important that the relationship feels like a partnership, where both parties contribute to a shared vision. From there, we offer support, guidance, and opportunities to exhibit, grow, and connect with broader audiences. We aim to amplify voices that challenge, provoke, and inspire change.
- The agency is showcasing Modern Encounters with the Archaic - Andrew Gow's first solo narrative collection - from 22 to 26 January 2025. Why did you choose this particular exhibition and artist for this fair?
Andrew Gow's Modern Encounters with the Archaic represents a powerful exploration of the intersections between past and present, capturing the essence of modernity through the lens of ancient narratives. We felt this collection was particularly fitting for the London Art Fair because it reflects our commitment to showcasing works that challenge viewers to reflect on contemporary culture, identity, and heritage. Andrew's ability to blend historical elements with a contemporary narrative invites meaningful dialogue and evokes a deep emotional response. His work embodies what Kei London stands for-bold storytelling, technical excellence, and thought-provoking art that resonates across time.
- What upcoming projects or collaborations can we look forward to from Kei London after the London Art Fair?
Following the London Art Fair, we have several exciting projects in the pipeline. We are planning a series of immersive art experiences that blend technology with fine art, breaking traditional boundaries and exploring new dimensions of storytelling. Our focus will also be on collaborative projects that connect visual art with music, fashion, and other creative industries. Additionally, we're launching an educational initiative that offers workshops and courses on navigating the art business, empowering emerging artists and curators with the tools they need to succeed. Our goal is to continue building a vibrant, inclusive community where creativity thrives, and meaningful connections are made. Stay tuned-there's so much more to come.
