Emalin

Emalin is one of London’s most dynamic and forward-thinking contemporary art galleries, situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Shoreditch. Since its establishment in 2016 by Leopold Thun and Angelina Volk, the gallery has become a significant platform for emerging and mid-career artists, contributing substantially to London’s ever-evolving art landscape.

The Genesis of Emalin

The story of Emalin begins with a vision to create a space that would challenge conventional gallery models. Founded by two passionate art professionals with diverse international backgrounds, the gallery emerged from pop-up exhibitions and temporary projects before finding its permanent home in a converted art deco building on Bohemia Place.

The gallery’s founders chose Shoreditch deliberately, recognizing the area’s rich cultural heritage and its reputation as a hub for creative innovation. The location, nestled between historic brick buildings and contemporary developments, perfectly embodies Emalin’s mission to bridge traditional and cutting-edge artistic practices.

Architectural Identity

The gallery space itself is a testament to thoughtful design and adaptation. The building, originally constructed in the 1930s, underwent a careful renovation that preserved its industrial character while creating a versatile exhibition space. The high ceilings, abundant natural light, and flexible layout provide an ideal setting for displaying diverse artistic mediums, from large-scale installations to intimate works on paper.

Curatorial Vision

Emalin’s curatorial program stands out for its bold and experimental approach. The gallery represents a select group of international artists whose practices span various media and conceptual frameworks. What unites them is their innovative approach to contemporary art-making and their ability to engage with pressing social, political, and cultural issues.

Artist Representation

The gallery’s roster includes emerging talents alongside more established names, creating a dynamic dialogue between different generations of artists. Some notable artists represented by Emalin include:

• Contemporary painters pushing the boundaries of traditional mediums
• Sculptors working with unconventional materials
• Digital artists exploring new technologies
• Performance artists challenging spatial and temporal conventions

Exhibition Programming

Emalin’s exhibition calendar typically features six to eight shows annually, each carefully curated to present new perspectives on contemporary art practice. The gallery’s programming strategy includes:

Solo Exhibitions

These shows provide in-depth explorations of individual artists’ practices, often featuring new bodies of work created specifically for the space.

Group Shows

Thematic exhibitions that bring together multiple artists, fostering dialogue and presenting diverse approaches to common concerns.

Special Projects

Collaborations with institutions, curators, and other galleries that extend beyond traditional exhibition formats.

Educational Initiatives

Understanding the importance of art education and public engagement, Emalin maintains an active program of:

• Artist talks and panel discussions
• Workshop series
• Publication launches
• Educational partnerships with local institutions

Impact on London’s Art Scene

Since its inception, Emalin has played a crucial role in shaping London’s contemporary art landscape. The gallery has:

Supported Emerging Artists

By providing early-career artists with significant exhibition opportunities and professional support, Emalin has helped launch numerous successful careers.

International Exchange

The gallery regularly participates in major international art fairs, facilitating cultural exchange and bringing global perspectives to London’s art scene.

Community Engagement

Through its location and programming, Emalin has contributed to the cultural vitality of East London, attracting diverse audiences and fostering community dialogue.

Digital Presence and Innovation

Recognizing the importance of digital platforms in contemporary art, Emalin has developed:

• A comprehensive online viewing room
• Digital archives of past exhibitions
• Social media engagement strategies
• Virtual exhibition experiences

Market Position and Collection Building

Emalin has established itself as a trusted advisor for:

• Private collectors
• Corporate collections
• Public institutions
• Museum acquisitions

The gallery’s expertise in identifying and nurturing artistic talent has made it a valuable partner for collection building at all levels.

Future Directions

As Emalin continues to evolve, several key areas of focus emerge:

Sustainability

The gallery is increasingly conscious of environmental concerns, implementing sustainable practices in exhibition production and daily operations.

Digital Integration

Continuing to explore innovative ways to present art in both physical and digital spaces.

Global Connections

Expanding international partnerships while maintaining strong local connections.

Critical Reception

Emalin has received consistent praise from art critics and publications for:

• Innovative programming
• Support of emerging artists
• Quality of exhibitions
• Contribution to London’s cultural landscape

The Gallery Experience

Visiting Emalin offers a distinctive experience characterized by:

• Welcoming atmosphere
• Professional staff
• Thoughtful presentation
• Engaging documentation

Practical Information

Location: Bohemia Place, London Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11 AM – 6 PM Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible Contact: Available through website and phone

Conclusion

Emalin has established itself as more than just a commercial gallery; it’s a cultural institution that continues to shape contemporary art discourse in London and beyond. Through its commitment to emerging artists, experimental programming, and community engagement, the gallery exemplifies the vital role that independent art spaces play in our cultural landscape.

The gallery’s success lies in its ability to balance commercial viability with artistic integrity, maintaining high standards while remaining accessible to diverse audiences. As London’s art scene continues to evolve, Emalin stands as a testament to the enduring importance of spaces that champion new voices and perspectives in contemporary art.

Looking ahead, Emalin seems poised to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation, maintaining its position as a key player in London’s rich cultural ecosystem. The gallery’s commitment to supporting emerging artists while engaging with established names ensures its continued relevance in the ever-changing landscape of contemporary art.

As we move further into the 2020s, spaces like Emalin become increasingly important as platforms for artistic expression and cultural dialogue. Their role in nurturing talent, facilitating discussions, and presenting challenging work to the public remains vital to the health and vibrancy of London’s art scene.