Robert Fraser (art dealer)

Robert Fraser (1937 – 1986) was a British art dealer who exerted a significant influence on the London art scene of the 1960s. Known for his charisma and eye for talent, Fraser played a key role in introducing Pop Art and other contemporary movements to a wider audience.

Fraser opened his gallery, Robert Fraser Gallery, in London in 1962. He quickly became a champion of emerging artists, particularly those associated with Pop Art, showcasing the works of artists such as Andy Warhol, Jim Dine, Claes Oldenburg, Peter Blake, Richard Hamilton, Eduardo Paolozzi, and Jann Haworth. His gallery became a meeting place for artists, musicians, and other cultural figures, earning him the nickname "Groovy Bob" due to his hip and fashionable lifestyle.

Beyond Pop Art, Fraser also supported other innovative artists and movements, including Surrealism and Conceptual Art. He was known for his unconventional and often provocative exhibitions, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in the art world at the time.

Fraser's career was marked by both success and scandal. In 1968, he was arrested and imprisoned for drug possession, an event that significantly impacted his gallery and his reputation. While he attempted to revive his career after his release, he never fully regained his former prominence.

Robert Fraser died of AIDS in 1986. Despite his relatively short career, his influence on the development of contemporary art in Britain and beyond remains considerable. He is remembered as a visionary dealer who helped shape the art world of the 1960s and introduced some of its most important figures to the public. His legacy continues through the artists he championed and the impact he had on the art market.