Conversations

ACTWALL on Contemporary Photography

A platform dedicated to Swiss photography, ACTWALL brings together the works of both emerging and established photographers in a carefully curated selection. Drawing on their expertise and network, founders Maeva Dubrez and Aurélien Garzarolli give contemporary photography a new showcase, online and through various exhibitions. Building bridges between artists and collectors, they accompany art enthusiasts, companies and institutions in acquiring photographic works and building a collection. They’ve shared some insights with us.

Founded by Maeva Dubrez and Aurélien Garzarolli, ACTWALL is dedicated to strengthening the bond between artists and photography enthusiasts, whether confirmed collectors or those just starting out. It was a simple observation that gave rise to this initiative: too many contemporary photographic works are not being exhibited. Often stored out of sight between exhibitions, these works carry an artistic and cultural value that the platform aims to highlight. By bringing the work of established and emerging photographers to the fore, the platform supports not only artists in their development and creative process, but also art aficionados, collectors and businesses in acquiring new contemporary works.

Bridging worlds that do not always speak the same language, the founders of ACTWALL carefully select works that reveal a distinctive perspective and a rigorous artistic approach. To offer a tangible dimension to the online platform, they regularly organise exhibitions in various venues, thereby creating public gatherings dedicated to contemporary photography. Thanks to a meticulous scenography, each visit becomes an immersive experience, an exploration of new artistic universes. Whether as carte blanche or for bespoke selections, their expertise enables them to provide a strong curatorial approach, whilst remaining accessible to diverse audiences, from novices to experts. It is also within this delicate balance that they propose selections of photographic works to businesses and institutions to dress the walls of their premises or waiting rooms with contemporary creations, always with the possibility to acquire these works in the long term.

Drawing on their knowledge of the art market and their network, Maeva Dubrez and Aurélien Garzarolli support photography enthusiasts and collectors in developing their collections, proposing them carefully chosen works by Swiss artists.

When building a collection, they recommend that we first and foremost choose works that speak to us personally and reflect our own sensibilities. Beyond the financial investment, it is above all about enjoying art, following our intuition, and then perhaps exploring a more specific theme. On the art scene, it is essential to surround ourselves with trusted professionals and to purchase pieces from expert art dealers so that you receive all the necessary documentation. Keeping a detailed record of each new piece helps to enhance the value of the collection. With the evolution of current technologies, it is also important to consider the medium and the production process, as the more limited the edition, the rarer the photographic work. This will also influence its value.

Every collection began with a single work and a deep passion for art – a value shared by the founders of ACTWALL.

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  • Text
    Geraldine Morand
  • Photography
    ACTWALL
  • Cover - Photography
    Aimée Hoving