As with most creative industries, making a name for yourself in the art world is less about what you know and more about who you know. Yes, talent will always be the first prerequisite, but there’s something to be said for being at the right place at the right time and shaking hands with the right person—the gallerist who might launch your next show, the art advisor who will turn her high-powered clients onto your work, or that burgeoning collector who can help make the value of your work skyrocket.
Chances are that you’ve probably already rubbed shoulders with one of the art world’s most important power players, particularly if you regularly attend gallery openings or travel to major industry gatherings like Art Basel. You just need to know who it is you’re looking for. Fortunately, we’ve done the legwork for you. These are the 20 Art World Power Players You Need to Know.