London Invitational Brings US Dealers to Former Embassy
The former US Embassy in London has a new use. The London Invitational, an art fair — a short selling showcase where galleries offer work — moved into the building in 2026.
It did not come alone. The fair brought a contingent of US-based dealers, advisers and collectors to London, according to The Art Newspaper. Dealers sell the work. Advisers buy on behalf of clients.
The London event is the London edition of the Dallas Invitational in Dallas, Texas. It was founded by Dallas-based dealer James Cope, who is originally from the UK, as reported by The Art Newspaper. It is organised with collector Jessica Nowitzki.
That Dallas-to-London link shapes the guest list. American galleries get a room in central London. London buyers get to see them without flying to Texas. Everyone works under one roof for a few days.
The aim is breadth. ARTnews reports the fair targets diverse international collectors. That means buyers from several countries, not only regulars from one city.
Among those taking part is Marinaro gallery in New York. The gallery announced its participation in the London Invitational 2026 in a social media post. Such posts are how many smaller galleries now confirm their fair plans.
Embassy buildings make striking fair venues. The rooms were built for offices and receptions, not white-cube displays. Galleries must fit their stands around doors, corridors and grand spaces.
What makes this stand out for a casual visitor is the scale. Big October fairs can feel vast. This is tighter. The conversation is closer, and the transatlantic mix gives Londoners a quick look at what US dealers are showing now.
