Interview with
Lee Cavaliere
Artistic Director, VOLTA Basel
by Hazel Clarke,
Editor, THE GAZE
Basel never ceases to amaze me. For a small city, it holds big influence in the art world, attracting the sector's global elite year after year. Of course, much of this is rooted in Basel’s pioneering artistic heritage, but every June, as leading experts from world-class institutions converge on the Swiss city, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of pride—even awe—at the city's role in shaping contemporary art discourse.
With that in mind, it was both a pleasure and a privilege to have been able to sit down with Lee Cavaliere, the Artistic Director of one of my favourite Basel art fairs—VOLTA. Taking the helm about two years ago, Cavaliere has been steering Volta into its next chapter. A British arts professional with extensive expertise in contemporary art, his experience spans both the institutional and gallery sectors. His achievements are remarkable, and his mission is clear: to refine VOLTA's position both locally and globally while navigating the rapid shifts of today’s art market with a strong, forward-thinking vision.
Our conversation comes at a particularly significant moment—not just because of Cavaliere’s relatively recent appointment, but also because this year marks VOLTA's 20th Anniversary edition. It's just a couple of weeks before the fair and for the first time, the VOLTA is taking place in the very heart of its founding city, Basel, at the Congress Centre, Messeplatz—an appropriately symbolic setting for such a important milestone.
The interview itself is relaxed and, I must say, thoroughly enjoyable—largely thanks to Cavaliere’s natural, easy-going style. That said, we don’t shy away from weightier topics and seamlessly weave them into our thirty-minute discussion. So, let’s dive straight in!
Q: VOLTA at 20 – What is VOLTA’s legacy and impact on the art fair landscape, and how does its 20th milestone reflect its mission as it continues to evolve?
Lee Cavaliere:
"When Volta first launched 20 years ago, it was quite a small affair—almost just a gathering of like-minded people. Friends and gallerists came together to support one another, building momentum behind their work and the artists they represented. At its core, VOLTA was shaped by emerging galleries and artists, with a strong sense of camaraderie. The collegiate, cool, and almost ‘handmade’ approach is something we’ve worked hard to preserve over the years.
"The sense of community and mutual support is one of the main reasons I wanted to be part of VOLTA. I’ve always been deeply aware of the enormous network required to help artists gain visibility in the wider world, and Volta continues to be a space that nurtures and amplifies that spirit.
"Over the past 20 years, many of these galleries have grown from emerging spaces into highly successful enterprises. Twenty years is a long time in the art world, and when VOLTA first began, I was just three years out of college. Our evolution is still happening, as we continue our aim is to foster that sense of mutual support and community.
​"Now that Volta has matured, we’re seeing a fascinating generational dynamic. Some galleries have participated in fairs for years and can provide guidance, influence, and support for younger galleries. At the same time, the newer galleries bring fresh energy, shaking things up and showing more established players new ways of doing things—especially when the older ones risk becoming set in their ways. We're seeing the younger galleries taking more risks, embracing innovative approaches, and in doing so, they’re teaching the veterans just as much as they’re learning from them. It’s an evolving exchange—just like life.
"That’s exactly what’s happening, and it’s wonderful to witness—and play a role in supporting it. Collectors, particularly new ones, should be encouraged to recognise the crucial part they play within this support network. Their engagement is essential in sustaining and nurturing the artistic ecosystem, enabling both emerging and established artists to flourish.”
Q: VOLTA’s Move to Messeplatz – How has the relocation shaped exhibitor and visitor experiences, and what does it signify for its broader role within Basel’s art ecosystem?
Lee Cavaliere:
“The new venue is fantastic—beautiful, spacious, and full of exciting possibilities. Having more room allows us to create dedicated lounges, restaurant and bar areas—including an oyster bar, which I’m particularly thrilled about. These breakout spaces give visitors a chance to sit, reflect, and engage in conversations in a more relaxed setting.
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"While we loved the old venue, it was on the city’s outskirts, which I think discouraged some people from making the trip. We’ve always wanted to be closer to the action—well, I certainly have! Being at Messeplatz makes it easier for everyone. There’s more crossover now; we’re right next to Art Basel, Liste, and June, forming a dynamic hub between us.​
"That said, VOLTA offers a distinct experience, separate from those fairs, which I feel adds to the richness of the overall scene. Visitors can move between different spaces, exploring a variety of artistic conversations. Gallerists of course, have long expressed a desire to be closer, and naturally, collector groups appreciate the proximity to the buzz of Messeplatz.
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"Crucially, this move is a game-changer for galleries—especially those exhibiting in a European fair for the first time. They’re now at the thick of it all, fully immersed in the energy of Basel’s art week. It’s incredibly exciting for them!
"We certainly like to keep things comfortable at VOLTA, to ensure a welcoming atmosphere. I think it’s important to be able to relax, which is why I appreciate that we remain a small fair—it allows for more meaningful interactions with each gallery.
"Since many of our galleries are either new to Europe or exhibiting here for the first time, it’s essential to have the time to engage with them properly. VOLTA to this day has a clean, almost boutique feel—inviting, calm, and free from the hectic pace of larger fairs. It’s a space where visitors can truly connect with the art and comfortably speak to gallerists in an unhurried way.
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"In short, it’s all about having a conversation—a dialogue not just between the visitor and the gallerist, but also between the visitor and the art itself. That exchange is what makes the experience so special.”
Q: Shaping Curatorial decisions – How have previous projects, such as VOMA, shaped curatorial decisions and influenced exhibition aesthetics at VOLTA?
Lee Cavaliere:
“VOMA was really about giving people access to art, particularly those who might never visit galleries or museums. The idea was to put art online so that anyone, regardless of geography, background, or financial situation, could engage with it. Not everyone has the ability to simply walk into a gallery or museum, so that’s why we created VOMA—it was all about accessibility.
"Access is something I’m truly passionate about, and it remains one of VOLTA’s core themes. At VOLTA, we explore not just how artists and galleries emerge, but also the broader question of access—what does it actually look like?
"VOLTA continues this discourse by unpacking buzzwords like ‘access,’ ‘international,’ and ‘emerging.’ These terms are widely used, but what do they really mean? I believe that VOLTA is in a unique position to explore these ideas, to question them, and to engage in meaningful discussions about what’s behind the language we often take for granted."
Q: Attracting Collectors & Buyers – How can fairs like VOLTA better engage serious collectors and stay relevant for today’s buyers?
Lee Cavaliere:
“Collectors are curious, discerning and incredibly engaged people. We’ve built a loyal base of collectors who return to VOLTA year after year, drawn to its distinct energy and vision. Moving to a new venue has opened up exciting opportunities—allowing us to connect with a fresh audience while continuing to serve our dedicated supporters. With the addition of new galleries, participation has grown significantly—rising from 47 galleries last year to 70 this year—which has brought even greater diversity to the fair.
"This year also, we’re truly celebrating our place in Basel, recognising the city’s role in nurturing VOLTA for the past 20 years. To honour that, we introduced a free day for Basel residents on the Friday—a kind of love letter to the city, while also deepening our engagement with the Swiss market.
"Switzerland, and Basel in particular, holds a significant place in the global art scene, which is why Friday’s programme is dedicated to exploring its influence. It’s a personal touch to say, let's, look at Basel, because this is an amazingly vibrant city and it has long been at the heart of the art market and still very much is.​
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"The talks programme is something I’ve wanted to do for a while, but space constraints held us back. Now, with the new venue, we finally have the room to make it happen—it’s a perfect way to engage people in deeper conversations.The conversational aspect is critical—I spend the entire day on the floor, talking to people. I think that’s quite unusual for a fair director.
"Last year, I was sitting outside on a deck chair, chatting with a visitor. At one point, she paused and asked, ‘Oh, sorry, who are you?’ I told her, ‘I’m the director.’ She looked surprised and said, ‘Wow, I’ve never met a fair director before’.
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"That kind of direct engagement is really important to me. A fair isn’t just about transactions—it’s about building a community that can grow, evolve and endure, shaping the fair’s identity and making the experience more meaningful for everyone.
"And buyers today seek genuine engagement—they want to be seen as curious, discerning, and passionate individuals rather than the relationship being based on the transaction. The days of keeping collectors at arm’s length when they step into a booth are fading; the barrier of elitism is increasingly viewed as old-fashioned.
"People are realising that their love for art is deeply personal, and that connection is worth open discussion and sharing. Collectors desire meaningful conversations, not exclusivity—they thrive on dialogue, interaction, and a deeper understanding of the work they invest in."
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Q: The Role of Art in Contemporary Life – In an era defined by digital transformation, global challenges, and shifting cultural narratives, what do you see as the essential role of art in people’s lives?
Lee Cavaliere:
“It’s a big question, but I think art is always where we turn. If you’re having a terrible day, what do you do? You listen to music, visit a gallery, go to the theatre—something uplifting from the arts. Our personal connection with art sustains us. What I find fascinating is that you could stand next to an artwork with your best friend, someone you’ve known your whole life, and you’d each see something different. And that’s exactly as it should be.
"Art has a way of bypassing intellect and going straight in—there’s no resisting it. It’s a conversation, that's deeply and entirely yours.
"Over the past few years, I’ve noticed a shift. Perhaps it stems from our experience of COVID, or the emergence of younger collectors with a different sensibility, but the normalisation of personal response has become more apparent. People are embracing their own interpretations—owning them. Collectors can no longer be told what to feel in the way they once were. The relationship with art has become more honest, open, and individual. That’s the direction we need to continue in.
"Building on this point, it's clear that learning about the artists and their backgrounds can intensify your connection with a piece, but that initial moment of engagement is entirely yours. Increasingly, people are encouraged to shape their own interpretations rather than relying solely on historical context. Simultaneously, we are aware that art also holds a soft power—dismantling both imagined and tangible barriers, opening doors and extending a hand to new ideas, places, and perspectives.
"In times of conflict, we instinctively turn to art—that is its power. In Basel, we held discussions on art and diplomacy, recognising its role as a universal language that transcends borders. Think about it, you don’t need to speak Ukrainian to connect with Ukrainian art.
"Through our efforts to foster cultural exchange, we've looked at topics such as underrepresentation, questioning for example why Middle Eastern art remains underrepresented in Europe.
"My background and Western education shape my perspective, but art allows us to step into other people's stories, minds, and viewpoints in a way that is entirely unique. There’s no better way to do that—it is a universal language, rooted in storytelling.
"This tradition stretches back long before we were humans, and it remains constant. You can encounter a work by an artist you’ve never heard of and still feel an immediate connection, an understanding. I feel this is invaluable—not only on a personal level but within communities and across cultures worldwide.
"Throughout history at times of war, culture—including art, education, and cultural institutions—has been targeted. This speaks to its power, significance, and even its vulnerability. Art is transformative—it holds both danger and magic in equal measure."
Q: Championing Emerging Artists – As the market evolves, how will VOLTA continue to support mid-career and emerging artists while balancing commercial success with artistic discovery?
Lee Cavaliere:
"Last year—my first fair—I aimed to create opportunities for new galleries entering the market. Now, three of those first-time exhibitors have progressed to the main section of the fair, which is a fantastic step forward.​
"As a team, we're actively strategising new ways to support emerging galleries, recognising that participation remains costly. Our goal is to make access more feasible, to ensure young galleries can engage with fairs without financial barriers holding them back.
"We’re also noticing a shift, with larger galleries showcasing well-established artists and secondary market works—something relatively new for VOLTA. At the same time, they’re presenting emerging artists, using their established market presence to support and elevate younger talent.
"The network effect is powerful—bringing together galleries that have never participated in a fair alongside those established since the 1980s and 1990s–creates an environment where they can learn from each other and grow together.
​"After last year's VOLTA, we saw a surge in collaborations. Many galleries met for the first time, and realised they shared similar challenges, and started proposing shared artists or joint projects-- ‘I've got a space in New York, you've got a space in London—let’s work together.’ This kind of exchange strengthens the ecosystem and fosters new opportunities.
"Emerging artists do need support—without it, many won’t sustain themselves beyond the next few years. That’s why building networks and harnessing collective dynamism is essential for moving forward.
"But the market is fluid, and established galleries are increasingly seeking younger artists. As a result, co-representation is beginning to take shape, creating new opportunities for collaboration and visibility."​
Q: The Changing Landscape of Art Fairs – How should fairs reimagine their models in the face of changing art landscapes? What role does technology play in shaping engagement?
Lee Cavaliere:
"When I worked at the gallery, we took part in thirteen art fairs a year! But today, we’re seeing a shift—alternative fair models are emerging beyond the traditional booth setup, with people exploring more dynamic and engaging approaches.
"As mentioned, we’re focused on affordability and new ways to support younger galleries, ensuring accessibility while maintaining the fair’s essential role in creating visibility. While the traditional fair model remains crucial, we’re also thinking ahead—looking at ways to secure the future of the market to ensure its longevity and sustainability. That's really our job.
"One particularly exciting direction is the network-driven approach—creating spaces where galleries can exchange ideas, collaborate, and share knowledge. We’re moving towards something akin to a fair-conference, blending commercial opportunities with a more creative, free-flowing experience. Watch this space!
"Of course, the internet—particularly Instagram—has become increasingly important for galleries in selling work, and digital innovation has completely transformed the landscape.
​​"I considered an entirely online version of VOLTA and may explore it in future, but I firmly believe in the value of in-person connection. Digital platforms are great for introductions—helping collectors to familiarise themselves with galleries and artists—but the most meaningful relationships and engagements happen face-to-face."
Q: Sustainability & Art Fairs – How can fairs balance ecological and cultural sustainability and what steps is VOLTA taking in these areas? How are digital platforms improving accessibility and environmental consciousness?
Lee Cavaliere:
"We’re active members of the Gallery Climate Coalition—signing up was one of my first priorities. Sustainability in art fairs is challenging, especially when travel is involved, but there are aspects we can control.
​"For example, we don’t use carpets, and we’re exploring better disposal methods while offering galleries consolidated shipments. If eight galleries from Spain are participating, why send eight separate shipments when one shared truck can transport their works? We’re also looking at broader shipping solutions to further minimise environmental impact.
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"We’ve conducted a full carbon calculation, and as a fair group—excluding the galleries—we’re performing well. There are simple initiatives we can implement, from recycling and eliminating plastics to encouraging consolidated shipments as mentioned. But beyond that, we’re working on a broader strategy to advance sustainability, informed by our new home at Messeplatz and the locations of participating galleries. It takes time, but we’re getting there.
Q: Community connections - What initiatives has VOLTA introduced to strengthen connections with its international exhibitors and Basel’s local art community?
Lee Cavaliere:
"We’re deeply engaged with the Swiss market and local Basel community, with strong and invaluable partnerships across Switzerland, including collector groups and institutional connections.
"Throughout the year, we’ll be hosting events in Basel, Zurich, and Verbier—whether a talk, a dinner, or other gatherings to strengthen relationships. I visit Basel at least twice a month, and have been for many years, ensuring a close connection to the city’s art scene.
"As a result, significantly more Swiss galleries are joining the fair, now making up around nine to ten percent of participants. Naturally, our new location has played a key role in encouraging this growth."
Q: Career influences - How has your career shaped your vision and leadership approach and what do you consider as your key successes?
Lee Cavaliere:
"I've always been good at asking questions and connecting people, but in recent years, I’ve realised that curiosity and admitting what you don’t know are just as important.
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"As a twenty-something working in a Bond Street gallery in London, I was very insecure—but I’ve come to see insecurity as a strength. True confidence isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being receptive enough to ask questions and willing to acknowledge what you don’t know.
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"Most of my successes have come from that mindset—it disarms people, sparks conversations, and creates genuine connections. It also helps you grow and recognise where you need to improve. So, if I had to name my greatest success, it would be staying open and bringing people together."
VOLTA’s future direction – How will VOLTA evolve beyond its 20th anniversary edition, especially in response to technological advancements in the art fair model?
Lee Cavaliere:
"We’re contracted to be at Messeplatz for the next few years, which gives us a solid foundation to grow thoughtfully. I’m not looking to scale up dramatically, but there is room for some expansion. I’d like to introduce more installation and performance-based work to further activate the space. We’re also exploring ways to improve accessibility for smaller galleries, including more innovative participation models, and continuing to develop the educational aspect of the fair."
Credits: Riyad Nemah; Georges Yammine; Kurafuji; Majd Kurdieh; Fatma Lootah
For further information visit: www.voltaartfairs.com. With grateful appreciation to:Volta Art Fair, Pickles PR​​​​