ABOUT AIFA
Established in 2018, AIFA Gallery is dedicated to showcasing significant contemporary Japanese art outside of Japanese borders. The gallery, located in Verbier, Switzerland, promotes artworks by established and emerging artists, with the aim of highlighting the rich and dynamic nature of the Japanese art scene.
Our deep expertise in the Japanese contemporary art market, combined with strong relationships we have been building with represented artists over the years, allows us to offer an exceptional selection of original quality artworks. AIFA’s curated exhibitions include fine ceramics, lacquerware, sculptures, paintings, and paper works; an ambition to accurately represent the exceptional diversity of the Japanese contemporary art scene.
AIFA intends to build cultural bridges between Western collectors and Japanese artists; helping collectors gain access to Japan's multifaceted contemporary art market and offering artists an opportunity to introduce their work to a diverse audience. We organize both individual and thematic group exhibitions, which often extend beyond our permanent gallery space into art fairs and temporary exhibition venues, ensuring artists receive the recognition we believe they deserve.
Moving forward, AIFA Gallery is committed to expanding its influence and enhancing the visibility of Japanese contemporary art internationally.
OUR TEAM
Adrien Iynedjian, Founder
Adrien Iynedjian, founder, comes from a family with deep roots in the art world. His father was an art dealer for many years, instilling in him a rich heritage of art appreciation and a deep-rooted passion for cultural exploration. Surrounded by an extensive collection of abstract art, Adrien developed a discerning artistic eye from an early age. This environment was further enriched by his extensive travels and visits to museums, institutions and private galleries around the world.
Being raised in a family of art collectors, Adrien's exposure to different art forms has been greatly enriched by his career, which has been mainly oriented towards Asia. This focus has deepened his appreciation of Asian cultures and sparked a keen interest in Asian art. This growing fascination naturally extended to Japan, a country that became even more significant to Adrien when his stepson settled there over a decade ago. His personal connections in Japan have further enriched his understanding and appreciation of this vibrant artistic landscape. The dynamism and depth of the Japanese contemporary art scene captivated him, prompting him to showcase these works beyond Japan's borders.
In 2018, driven by their passion, Adrien and his stepson launched AIFA Gallery to organise temporary exhibitions across Switzerland, sharing their discoveries and the unique stories behind each work. This endeavour will culminate in the inauguration of the AIFA Gallery in Verbier in 2021, creating a permanent space dedicated to the promotion of contemporary Japanese art.
Emilie Thomas, Gallery Director
Swiss-based art historian and curator with over a decade of experience in the art market, Emilie joined AIFA Gallery in 2021. Emilie has a rich educational background and holds a Master of Arts in The History and Business of Art and Collecting from the University of Warwick, England. Her academic research focused on collections related to ceramics.
Emilie is also a member of the French Syndicate of Professional Experts in Works of Art and Collectibles (SFEP). She frequently contributes to a cultural magazine, providing insight into various exhibitions in French-speaking Switzerland. Her experience includes collaborations with auction houses and private collections, which have strengthened her expertise in art valuation, curation, and consulting.
Emilie's contributions to the art community include involvement in three books, where she was responsible for historical research.
At AIFA Gallery, Emilie is actively involved in identifying new artists and liaising with them to curate exhibitions. Her work in developing the gallery's presence at art fairs and her collaboration with artists help to keep a vibrant and dynamic exhibition programme that appeals to collectors and art enthusiasts.
