Editor: Hossein Amirsadeghi
Executive Editor: Maryam Eisler; Photography by Robin Friend

Often it’s the story behind something that proves most intriguing, the little known secrets and spaces that help big ideas come to life that are truly fascinating, and a recent book we’ve come across gives a rare and privileged insight into just such environments. Art Studio America: Contemporary Artist Spaces is edited by an old friend, Maryam Eisler, and is quite simply one of the most interesting art books we’ve seen in quite some time. A sweeping journey – quite literally – across America’s artistic landscape, it takes a look at the working spaces and environments of 115 artists working in America today. What that provides is a lavish treat and a sneak peek inside the private studios of some of our best known contemporary artists, be they the huge factory style set up of Sterling Ruby, the flatiron loft of John Currin or Francesco Clemente’s Brooklyn meditation space, complete with Frank Gehry furniture. Like the artists themselves, each space speaks of a singular vision and way of working that is completely unique. What they have in common is that they are, quite simply, where the magic happens. Here, Maryam tells us of some of the most memorable experiences she encountered along her book’s journey.

Following their London and New York book launches, Maryam Eisler and Hossein Amirsadeghi traveled to Hong Kong’s Art Basel where we hosted a small gathering to celebrate their success. (Scroll above for some pictures)

By Fiona KOTUR