What to Pack for Aspen Art Week
Art dealer and gallerist Marianne Boesky shares what she can’t leave home without as she heads out for an inspiring trip in the mountains
This month, artists, collectors, and industry insiders will head to Colorado for Aspen Art Week, where dynamic programming will see top talents showcased in multiple fairs, immersive installations, and inspiring panels. But beyond the mountains, the town also has much to offer when it comes to restaurants and cultural nightlife.
Marianne Boesky, founder of Boesky Gallery, is headed West as she returns for Aspen Art Fair. Her gallery’s presentation will feature pastels and paintings by Jennifer Bartlett, sequined clouds by Sanford Biggers, sculptural works by the Haas Brothers, and new pieces by Tianyue Zhong. Ahead of what promises to be an exhilarating week, she shares with Galerie what she’s packed in her suitcase.
What are you going for?
Aspen is my absolute happy place, and I’m super lucky to have a home there and be part of this unique community throughout the year. This coming trip is timed for the gallery to participate in the Aspen Art Fair and to attend some of the great AIR events, but I will also make sure I get some great hiking time and a half day of fly fishing with my brother.
How many days will you be there?
About two weeks.
What aren’t you leaving home without?
A lot of my stuff already lives there! But if I were giving someone advice on what to bring, I would say: a hat, sunblock, and sunglasses! Plus comfy hiking clothes and gear. Fancy dressing is totally optional in Aspen, so pack light on that front.
What is your day of travel outfit?
Jeans and a t-shirt and some kind of duster jacket or sweater because I always freeze on the flights.
How many outfits for how many days?
For a person you might think is high maintenance, I’m really chill about what I wear in Aspen. It’s mostly jeans, shorts, and workout clothes during the day (like everyone else in Aspen) and casual strappy dresses and fun sandals for the evening. No heels! And a few long sleeve t-shirts for hiking to protect from the sun.
Do you have an “outfit formula?”
I lean toward a bit bohemian. I like elegant but comfortable!
What kind of versatile staples (easy transition items) are you packing?
The dresses work for day events or night events, which can get chilly. I keep a sweater or jacket in my bag so when the sun goes down, I’m ready for the temperature to follow, and I have a place to store my hat.
What shoes are you packing for the day?
A bunch of comfy sandals, my Havaianas, and a pair of sneakers. Hiking boots are already there.
Which accessories make the cut?
Rings and bracelets. I either go gold or silver and I have a few fun jewelry combos of each that I rotate.
What outerwear are you bringing?
Layers are the best for Aspen so I always bring great vest options. I just bought a Marfa Stance one when I was in Aspen last week that I love!
What are some special things you take into consideration when you pack for Aspen?
The intense sun and the chilly evenings.
Is there one special event outfit you’re packing? If so, what is it?
I lifted a beautiful long steel-colored velvet and lace spaghetti-strap dress from my daughter’s closet for Art Crush. By the time this runs, she will already know!