NOMAD St. Moritz Art Fair: A New Era of Collective Dialogue

The 2026 edition of the NOMAD St. Moritz Art Fair marks a significant transition, being the first without co-founder Giorgio Pace. Nicolas Bellavance-Lecompte, Pace's co-founder, described their parting as a natural evolution rather than a rupture, reflecting the fair's growth and maturity. This year's theme centered on dialogue, emphasizing the interconnectedness of objects and environments, moving away from the focus on individual pieces to a collective experience. Bellavance-Lecompte noted, “This year is less about a single protagonist and more about a collective maturity,” highlighting the coherence across presentations.

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The fair showcased a variety of immersive environments, with galleries constructing spaces that fostered interaction rather than isolation. For instance, Paris’ Maisonjaune Studios featured contemporary homewares alongside vintage décor, including Christian LaPie’s striking console table and Nilufar’s selection of mid-century furniture. The Nomad Alpine Bistro, a zero-waste pop-up restaurant led by chef Douglas McMaster, further enhanced the experience with a menu focused on responsible sourcing and contemporary gastronomy.

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Giorgio Armani/Casa was the main sponsor, presenting the exhibition “Through The Looking Glass,” which aimed to evoke emotional connections with home objects. Gallerist Abby Bangser explained that the exhibition was designed to showcase how art can coexist with functional pieces, emphasizing craftsmanship and emotional engagement.

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Sales at the fair reflected the high demand for unique pieces. Notable transactions included Isaac Monté’s Crystallized Ice Pink vase sold for €9,500 and Didi Ng Wing Yin’s Pleats Vase Cinnabar Red for €6,000. The Craftica Gallery showcased distinct metallic works, including a metal bench covered in sheep’s hair that sold for €13,200. The fair's atmosphere encouraged collectors to engage with the art on a deeper level, resonating with the overarching themes of connection and dialogue.

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While the fair was largely celebrated for its innovative approach, some critics may argue that the focus on immersive environments could overshadow individual artistry. The shift from showcasing singular pieces to collective experiences raises questions about the representation of individual artists and their works.

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As NOMAD prepares for its 10th edition next year, Bellavance-Lecompte emphasized that the fair will continue to evolve, responding to its environment and cultural context. “NOMAD never replicates itself,” he stated, indicating a commitment to unpredictability and innovation in future editions.

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• “This year is less about a single protagonist and more about a collective maturity.” — Nicolas Bellavance-Lecompte, Co-founder of NOMAD

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• “It’s a traditional boatbuilder’s technique that’s light and strong, working on an anvil, bending the wood and then driving the nails in to hold it,” — Jane Crisp, Artist

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• “That sense of unpredictability is not accidental.” — Nicolas Bellavance-Lecompte, Co-founder of NOMAD

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The NOMAD St. Moritz Art Fair has positioned itself as a significant event in the art world, fostering dialogue and connection through its innovative presentations and immersive experiences.

New York Observer