Unit London

From humble beginnings in a 300-square-foot former charity shop to becoming one of London’s most influential contemporary art galleries, Unit London’s journey embodies the spirit of artistic innovation and entrepreneurial determination. Founded by childhood friends Jonny Burt and Joe Kennedy in 2013, the gallery has transformed into a powerhouse of contemporary art, championing emerging talents while breaking down traditional barriers in the art world[1].

The Genesis of Unit London

Best friends since age 11, Burt and Kennedy’s artistic connection began in their school’s art class at London’s Latymer Upper School. After completing their university education at Warwick and Manchester respectively, the 23-year-old duo embarked on an ambitious venture to establish their own gallery[1].

Their first exhibition, “Looking for U,” showcased 16 artists in a modest space in Chiswick. This inaugural show featured artists like Ryan Hewett and Jake Wood-Evans, who remain integral to Unit’s roster today, demonstrating the founders’ early eye for talent and their commitment to long-term artist relationships[1].

The Mayfair Milestone

After five years of nomadic existence in various London locations, Unit London made a bold move in 2018 by securing a 6,000-square-foot former Citibank building in Mayfair[1][2]. This strategic relocation positioned the gallery at 3 Hanover Square, placing it in the heart of London’s most prestigious art district, neighboring institutions like Sotheby’s and Pace Gallery[1].

Digital Innovation and Contemporary Approach

Unit London has distinguished itself through its innovative use of social media and digital platforms. The gallery has built an impressive following of nearly 570,000 Instagram followers, connecting with millennials and art enthusiasts worldwide[1][2]. This digital-first approach has attracted attention from notable figures across creative industries, including Jude Law, Bob Geldof, and Jean Paul Gautier[2].

Artistic Programming and Development

The gallery’s programming reflects its commitment to diverse contemporary voices. Recent exhibitions have included:

Contemporary Exhibitions:

• Bobbi Essers’s first UK solo show
• “Dante’s Inferno” group exhibition
• Kevin Klamminger’s “Promethean Approach”
• Amy Hui Li’s “paradise lost”[3]

The Dragon Hill Residency

In 2024, Unit London launched an ambitious artist residency program in the South of France. The Dragon Hill Residency, housed in a 1960s landscape house designed by French architect Jacques Couëlle, offers artists and writers a six-week program with fully equipped studios. The program culminates in an annual summer exhibition at the historic Château de Castellaras[1].

Venice Biennale Presence

Further expanding their international reach, Unit London mounted a major exhibition during the 60th Venice Biennale titled “In Praise of Black Erranty,” featuring 19 modern and contemporary Afro-diasporic artists at the Palazzo Pisani[1].

Current Focus and Future Vision

Today, Unit London operates from two locations:

• The 6,000-square-foot flagship gallery in Mayfair
• The Stables in Covent Garden, focusing on group exhibitions and artist development[2]

The gallery continues to identify, develop, and promote innovative artists for contemporary audiences. Their core mission remains centered on amplifying artistic voices that challenge, inspire, and enrich the world[6].

Impact on London’s Art Scene

Unit London has established itself as more than just a commercial gallery. It has become a cultural hub that bridges the gap between traditional art world structures and contemporary artistic expression. The gallery’s success story represents a new model for art businesses in the 21st century, combining commercial acumen with genuine artistic development and community engagement.

Legacy and Continuing Evolution

As Unit London celebrates its first decade, its influence on the contemporary art scene continues to grow. The gallery’s journey from a suburban pop-up to a major player in the international art world demonstrates the potential for innovation and fresh perspectives in the traditionally conservative art market.

The success of Unit London proves that with vision, determination, and a genuine commitment to artists and audiences, it’s possible to create meaningful change in the art world while building a successful business. As they look toward the future, Burt and Kennedy remain committed to their original mission: making contemporary art accessible while supporting the next generation of artistic talent[1].

Citations: [1] https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-10-years-london-gallery-unit-going-strength-strength [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unit_London [3] https://unitlondon.com/exhibitions/ [4] https://unitlondon.com [5] https://www.artnet.com/galleries/the-unit-ldn/ [6] https://www.artsy.net/partner/unit [7] https://unitlondon.com/artists/damian-elwes/