London is home to one of the most established independent art scenes on the planet—but the newest gallery on its circuit is the brainchild of an erstwhile Indian royal. Amar Gallery, founded by 27-year-old Amar Singh of Kapurthala (he is 16th in line to the former Kapurthala throne), opened its doors to the public at the end of January with Links, an exhibition by contemporary figurative artist Howard Tangye, who was the head of Womenswear Design at Central Saint Martins, and has taught the likes of Stella McCartney, Zac Posen and John Galliano.
The UK-born Harvard graduate has been working towards opening his own gallery for almost two years—it took him 18 months just to find the perfect location. “I’m hoping to showcase an eclectic array of exciting art by both emerging and established artists,” he says. The gallery also has an on-site studio where Singh plans to host artists from all around the world.
Singh is drawn towards abstract and contemporary art: his private collection contains works by SH Raza, Glenn Ligon, Georgia O’Keeffe and Salvator Rosa. But it’s not just about art. Singh is an avid supporter of LGBT and women’s rights—and hopes to highlight these causes through his gallery as well. He is also an active philanthropist and has raised funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and The Muhammad Ali Foundation.
There’s no doubt that Amar Gallery, with its slew of exciting exhibitions set for the year, will contribute heavily to London’s already thriving arts scene. But the one to watch out for? Piers Jackson’s solo show in March. That’s the one Singh is placing his bets on: “His geometric art is breathtaking.”
