Author: Miss Valentina Jessop
For Nick Leeks, art has always been more than a passion; it is a calling. As the Senior Art Advisor and Art History Specialist at the London Art Exchange (LAX), he has brought a fresh perspective to the way contemporary art is appreciated, bought, and sold. In this exclusive feature, we explore Nick’s career trajectory, the innovative work he is doing at LAX, and how he has helped revolutionize the art sales market, particularly in contemporary art. We also sit down with Nick for a personal Q&A to understand the man behind the success.
From Bonhams to the London Art Exchange: A Career Redefined
Nick’s journey began at the prestigious Bonhams Auction House, where he built a solid foundation in the art world. During his tenure, he gained hands-on experience in art handling, cataloging, and client management. However, his ambition to push boundaries and create a more direct impact led him to pivot from the structured world of auction houses to the dynamic environment of the London Art Exchange.
“Bonhams was an incredible place to start,” Nick reflects. “It taught me the value of precision, attention to detail, and the importance of building trust with clients. But I knew I wanted to work more closely with artists and collectors, to create meaningful partnerships and foster a deeper appreciation for contemporary art.”
At LAX, Nick has found the perfect platform to do just that. Nestled in the heart of Soho, LAX is a fine art gallery with an impressive roster of contemporary artists, including trailblazers like Mr. Phantom, Gabrielle Malak, and Pierre Simone. Under Nick’s guidance, LAX has not only grown its artist portfolio but also strengthened its position as a trusted partner in the art market.
Redefining the Art Sales Market
Nick’s work at LAX goes beyond advising clients on their collections. He has been instrumental in creating innovative sales strategies that deliver tangible results. Over the past few years, LAX has consistently generated an annual return on investment (ROI) of 10-15% for its clients. This success can be attributed to Nick’s deep understanding of market trends, his ability to identify promising artists, and his commitment to fostering long-term relationships with collectors.
“The art market is evolving rapidly,” Nick explains. “Collectors today are looking for more than just a piece to hang on their wall; they want investments that tell a story and hold their value. My role is to bridge that gap by connecting them with artists who have both creative and market potential.”
One of Nick’s key contributions has been his work with artists like Mr. Phantom. Known for his evocative and thought-provoking pieces, Mr. Phantom has become a cornerstone of LAX’s success. Through strategic collaborations, including partnerships with charities like Mind, Nick has helped elevate the artist’s profile while supporting meaningful causes. LAX’s donation of over £100,000 worth of artwork for Mind’s outreach programs is a testament to Nick’s vision of art as a force for good.
Building Community Through Exhibitions
In addition to his advisory work, Nick has been a driving force behind LAX’s monthly and quarterly exhibitions. These events serve as both a showcase for LAX’s artists and a meeting point for the art community. By curating exhibitions that resonate with diverse audiences, Nick has helped LAX gain trailblazing recognition within the art market.
“Exhibitions are where art comes alive,” Nick says. “They allow collectors, critics, and casual art lovers to engage with the work on a personal level. Creating that connection is what makes this job so rewarding.”
A Personal Touch: Q&A with Nick Leeks
Q: What inspired your career change from Bonhams to LAX?
Nick: Bonhams was an incredible learning experience, but I realized I wanted to work in an environment where I could have more creative freedom and make a direct impact. At LAX, I’m not just an advisor; I’m part of a team that’s shaping the future of contemporary art. It’s exhilarating to be at the forefront of such innovation.
Q: What’s been your proudest moment at LAX so far?
Nick: Without a doubt, the collaboration with Mind and Mr. Phantom. Knowing that our work has contributed to such a meaningful cause is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a perfect example of how art can transcend its traditional boundaries and create real-world impact.
Q: How do you stay ahead of trends in the art market?
Nick: It’s a combination of continuous learning and staying connected with the community. I make it a point to attend international art fairs, keep up with industry publications, and, most importantly, listen to the artists and collectors I work with. Their insights are invaluable.
Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to invest in contemporary art?
Nick: Focus on artists who resonate with you personally but also have a strong narrative and market potential. Building a collection is a journey, and the best investments are often the ones you feel a genuine connection with.
Looking Ahead
As Nick continues to lead the charge at LAX, his vision for the future is clear: to make contemporary art accessible, impactful, and enduring. Whether through groundbreaking exhibitions, innovative sales strategies, or meaningful collaborations, he is setting new standards in the art world.
For collectors, artists, and art enthusiasts, Nick Leeks is a name to watch. His work is not just transforming the London Art Exchange but also leaving an indelible mark on the contemporary art market as a whole. With his unique blend of expertise, passion, and vision, the future of contemporary art has never looked brighter.
