Who We Are
EAA is me, Gavin Kennedy, a longtime brand leader and storyteller with over 25 years of experience building and growing global brands for companies such as P&G, Dunkin’ Brands, and Campbell’s. Fifteen years ago, I began applying the business principles I had learned to my true passion: contemporary art, from a holistic perspective that encompasses collecting, philanthropy, and business.
My entry into the emerging art world began with patronage as a trustee and member of the executive committee of the Fine Arts Work Center, one of the world's most prestigious artist and writer residencies. FAWC champions emerging artists, providing them with the time, space, and financial resources at a pivotal point in their careers when they are shaping their voices. These fellows have gone on to shape global culture and include blue-chip artists such as Lisa Yuskavage, Firelei Baez, Ellen Gallagher, and Tala Madani. At FAWC, I gained a great deal of knowledge about identifying emerging talent and the type of support they require. I have also established a vast network of artists, gallerists, curators, writers, art academics, collectors, and other key players in the art world.
Additionally, I serve as co-chair of the ICA Boston Advisory Board, where I sit on the Collections and Exhibitions and Marketing Committees. The ICA Boston is globally recognized for often being the first crucial institutional launching pad for the next generation of talent, giving the first major show to many canonical artists. I’ve learned what curators are looking for as they seek out the critical next generation of voices in art that will shape culture.
What Makes Us Different
Unique Business and Arts Background: A balance of business and artistic acumen enables the assessment of artwork from both cultural and marketplace/investment perspectives. When you buy what you love, there is no wrong way to collect. Still, it is possible to achieve multiple goals simultaneously, including visual and value alignment, as well as long-term financial or philanthropic needs. My recommendations are always based on a deep understanding of your goals, personal outreach, connections to artists and gallerists, and market assessments from various reputable data sources.
Focus on Emerging and Ultra-Contemporary Art: These are artists on the rise in the early stages of their careers, poised to establish themselves in the market and secure representation with a blue-chip global gallery. Prominent and high-prestige art advisories often overlook this market due to the extensive and deep pool, which requires rigorous evaluation and brings lower fees associated with lower-cost work. Frequently, this group includes important and historically underrecognized artists who should be included in any serious contemporary art collection, including women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and artists from the Global South.
Vast Global Network: After years of involvement in the emerging art world, I have established an extensive and trusted network of artists, gallerists, collectors, writers, academics, shippers, installers, appraisers, and more, allowing for fast access and action.
Fair Fee Structure: EAA fees are often significantly lower than typical advisory fees, as our model relies on extremely low overhead. Whenever possible, I will negotiate the best deal on your behalf, and I often work with galleries to cover all advisory fees and costs associated with your art purchases.
Personalized Service: Your point of contact at EAA will always be me, Gavin Kennedy. It starts with a conversation where I delve into the heart of your authentic aesthetic and collecting goals, using visual and conceptual thought-starters, and it only gets more fun and exciting from there!
Contact Us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!