- Art & Design
As the prestigious PAD London fair returns to the iconic Berkeley Square for its 15th edition, it marks a significant milestone in the history of this French cultural extravaganza. Founder and CEO, Patrick Perrin, reflects on the transformative journey of 15 years, shaping PAD London into a vibrant platform that's celebrated for boundless inspiration, dedicated to creativity, quality, learning, and discovery.
This year's fair, with its distinctive mix of contemporary design, collectible design classics, art, and exquisite jewelry, drew over 6,000 enthusiasts on its opening day. A testament to its allure, the fair showcases the eclectic curation by international design galleries, featuring both established names and emerging talents. With 62 galleries from 16 countries across Europe, Asia, and North America, including 12 newcomers, PAD London continues to captivate with its diverse offerings. 
Highlights of the 2023 edition include Gallery Fumi's 15th-anniversary celebration, featuring captivating pieces like Stine Bidstup's Light Entanglements chandelier. Galerie Philia made its PAD debut, presenting a visually contrasting booth that's sure to ignite the imagination. Supported by Ruinart, the PAD London Prizes recognize the most distinguished spaces and pieces, bridging contemporary and historical design. These accolades are curated by a prestigious jury led by Design Museum director Tim Marlow, along with honorary presidents Jasper Conran OBE, Yana Peel, and Francis Sultana, in collaboration with leading figures from the worlds of design, art, and fashion.
Creativity knows no bounds, and that's what PAD London is celebrating
At PAD London 2023, Objects with Narratives, a newcomer from Belgium, emerged as the Booth Prize winner, with their thought-provoking display titled '(Un-)Controlled by Objects with Narratives.' The exhibit masterfully curated a juxtaposition of works by Mircea Anghel and Vladimir Slavov, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. 
In the heart of Berkeley Square, PAD London continues to be a haven for art and design enthusiasts, where the boundaries of creativity are pushed, and innovation thrives. It's a celebration of culture, a testament to artistic diversity, and a tribute to the enduring spirit of human expression. There’s a sense that Londoners enjoy PAD for its distinctly continental vibe, while the continental-European exhibitors value London’s cosmopolitan nature and the truly global window it offers. Walking around, contemporary design is in ascendency – particularly with a strong artisanal, storied feel; though there is no shortage of superb 20th-century work to admire. One thing is certain: we will definitely go next year! 
Header image: Galerie Philia at PAD London 2023 © Maison Mouton Noir
Image 1: Blonde Drinks Cabinet_By Christopher Kurtz (2022)_Courtesy of Sarah Myerscough
Image 2: Hack Chair III (blonde) by Gareth Neal (2022), courtesy of Sarah Myerscough Gallery
Image 3: Side Table 01 by Fango Studio (2023), courtesy of SIDE Gallery4
Image 4: Lose Control Table (2021) by Mircea Anghel © Richard John Seymour, courtesy of Mircea Anghel
Image 5: Golden Arc Console by Vikram Goyal, courtesy of Vikram Goyal and Nilufar
Image 6: Thar Console by Vikram Goyal_Courtesy of Vikram Goyal, courtesy of Vikram Goyal and Nilufar
Image 7: Booth Prize at PAD London 2023, Objects With Narratives, photographer Jack Hall (Getty Images) 2023 Image 8: Petalas Coffee Table_by Jorge Zalszupin_Courtesy of JCRD Design
Image 9: Cinque Terre Side Table_By Studio Sam London_Courtesy of Melchiorri Studio Gallery
Image 10: Bar cabinet_Attributed to Otto Schulz for Boet (1935), courtesy of Modernity
Image 11: Bamboo Chair by Jin Kuramoto, courtesy of Spazio Nobile
Image 12: Serving trolley by Stig Lönngren for Konstfack 1947, courtesy of Modernity
Text by Elke Aerts