Interview: Olivier Henry on Vue Privée's move

Why Vue Privée?
I moved to Singapore in 1998, a passionate young photographer with big dreams. Years down the road, having worked on campaigns for major local and international brands, I realized I was still deep down a frustrated artist. Becoming a fully-fledged artist was out of the question, so I decided to open an art space that would promote all those wonderful photographers and artists out there, with the hopes of launching their artistic careers.
What differentiates you guys from other galleries?
We do not really like to be called “a gallery.” Nothing wrong with the word, but it is very limiting in vision. We want to be a space where artists and the general public feel empowered by art. We help young artists with the production of their works and cover all their transportation, framing and installation costs.
Why the move?
The new venue in Spottiswoode Park provides us with more flexibility. This wide open space provides the perfect, blank canvas to showcase large-scale works that require more viewing distance, enhancing the experience for the viewer to appreciate them.
You guys also have a strong online platform; so why the need for a physical space?
We are a mortar business. Our online platform allows us to reach the whole world. But we are still based out of Singapore and it is important to have a physical presence in order to create dialogues among artists.
Why do you think affordable art has taken off in such a big way?
Art uplifts people and everyone should be able to own at least one piece of original art in their home. At Vue Privée, buying accessible priced art does not mean you are necessarily buying a cheaper artist. It just means that you are paying the fair price for something produced in a higher edition number. It is a great way to not only start collecting, but also a wonderfully unique gift idea. And you can potentially also buy something that may gain value with time when the artist gains notoriety.
Vue Privée is now located at 63 Spottiswoode Park. Check out their current exhibition, Buy Bye.