Alexander Hankin on Bridging Art and Fashion, Leaving a Legacy and His Favourite Collections

INTERVIEW

As art and fashion increasingly influence the other, Alexander Hankin has established himself as a leading voice at the intersection of these two creative domains. Recognised for his art philanthropy and fashion expertise, Alexander's insights focus on forecasted style trends, and incorporate the biggest events in art and fashion, from cutting-edge exhibitions, to world-renowned runways. 

Alexander’s passion for the arts is highlighted in his expertise, sincere appreciation for artists, and unwavering commitment to make art an accessible outlet. His mission to ensure art’s continued appreciation underscores his active philanthropy, and role as a bearer of knowledge within the industry.

A trusted voice for all things art and fashion, Alexander sat down with CSP Times to reflect on the cultural and personal milestones of his career thus far, and his hopes for the future.

Image courtesy of BFA

Can you tell us about yourself and how you got into art?

I grew up around art—my parents were collectors of Bucks County impressionist paintings and we were always travelling and going to museums around the world. While in law school I needed a creative outlet and joined the young friends of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This led to my love of art and involvement in various institutions around the world. 

How do you see fashion and art influencing each other in today’s cultural landscape? Are there any recent collaborations that particularly stood out to you?

I think there is a lot of crossover with art and fashion—going back to the 60s one the most notable being Yves Saint Laurent’s Mondrian dress. From then on art and fashion have been intertwined. Currently, I am excited for the new collaboration between Louis Vuitton x Murakami Collection!

You’ve supported many major art institutions, from the Philadelphia Museum of Art to the Guggenheim. What drives your passion for arts philanthropy?

I think that it's so important to preserve art for future generations, we are but the temporal custodians of art and need to always be mindful of that. I am also very passionate about making art accessible to everyone. I think this is what really drives my passion. 

Given your keen eye for emerging trends, what’s one art or fashion trend you predict will dominate the next season?

I think fur is having a real comeback in fashion. I'm here for it and don’t care who disagrees. 

What has been the most defining moment in your career as a curator and cultural commentator?

I think getting to recap the Met Gala last year for New York Live. It was really cool to get to analyse the various looks and see if they hit or missed the mark for last year's theme of Sleeping Beauties. 

Image courtesy of BFA

What are your top five favourite galleries and why?

Marianne Boesky, David Zwirner, Matthew Marks, Lévy Gorvy Dayan, and Victoria Miro. I just love these galleries. They represent some of the best artists in the world and their shows are always unique, immersive and thought provoking. 

What are your top five favourite restaurants in NYC? 

Chez Margaux, Pearl Box, The Nines, La Tête d’Or, and Lure Fishbar.

Who are your top five inspirations in the art world, and how have they influenced your career or personal aesthetic?

I think my personal collection can be broken into two components. I have been influenced by Vermeer and Frans Hals. They have inspired my love of Dutch 17th century masters painting and portraits that I have started ravenously collecting. I think Warhol and Murakami have helped to shape my more contemporary collection. All of which are mixed together in my home. I think this aesthetic of contemporary and old masters may have been shaped by Dr. Alfred Banes and The Barnes Collection. 

If you could host a dream art or fashion event anywhere in the world, where would it be and what would it look like?

I would love to buy a deconsecrated church, white wash it and do a retrospective of Hedi Slimane. 

How do you hope your work in fashion and art philanthropy will inspire future generations of collectors, curators, and creators?

I think what I hope is that people remember me for how passionately I care. Any institution I get involved in I really try to understand the collection on a deeper level and to know the mission of the institution. I think this is something that everyone should strive to do and not just show up for the parties, but really understand why they are there. 

Image courtesy of BFA

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