Abby & Kay with (their close friend) Andrew Schoelkopf at the opening of the new Schoelkopf Galley in SoHo, 2023

INTRODUCTION by Abigail Daley

Kay Childs is my adored friend from whom I have learned the most about art. In 2015 we walked into the Mnuchin Gallery to see the Carl Andre show and she was greeted enthusiastically by the partners and then she showed me around with quiet, confident expertise. Most of the work was by artists I was somewhat familiar with but I came away from my private tour with an education that has elevated my love, and quest for knowledge of contemporary art. Gallery hopping with Kay has since become a cherished activity I look forward to whenever the opportunity arises. Kay co-founded Topol Childs Art Advisory with BJ Topol in 2007 where they focus on American Art from the 1900s to the present. A pilgrimage to Marfa, Texas with Kay is on my bucket list… I love Kay’s style– she knows what suits her and she always looks classic + cool and exactly “right”.

What is your favorite luggage?

RIMOWA - Love how light their suitcases are. I use the carry-on size for the majority of my trips, near and far.

Do you have a travel uniform?

As an art advisor, I travel a lot for work, attending art fairs and visiting clients. I tend to bring a monochromatic palette so I can easily mix and match outfits. A leather jacket, my favorite jeans, a classic white button-down, and sneakers. I will also bring a great pair of trousers and my lug sole loafers.

Kay and BJ Topol in front of a Joan Mitchell painting at the NYC fair

Essentials you are never without?

Leather jacket - it goes with everything, my lug sole loafers, and a classic black cross-body handbag.

What is your favorite destination?

Hard question - Venice is the most special place, touristy for sure, but absolutely magical. Visiting during the shoulder seasons is preferred. The Peggy Guggenheim Museum is one of my favorites. However, I seem to go to Paris more than other cities, and it always takes my breath away. The Art and Culture in Paris is a constant draw for me.

What has been your most unforgettable trip thus far?

I took a trip with my daughters to Rome and Florence a few years ago. It had been a long time since I had visited either city, and to be there with the girls was incredibly special. I also made the pilgrimage in 2016 to Italy's Lake Iseo to see Christo and Jeanne-Claude's Floating Piers. I have seen three of their site-specific installations: the Gates in NYC, L'Arc de Triomphe, Wrapped in Paris, and the Floating Piers. It's hard to put into words the scope and beauty of their unique art projects.

Christo + Jean-Claude's The Floating Piers, Lake Iseo 2016

Where are you dreaming of going that you haven't yet gone?

I'd love to go to Morocco and visit Yves Saint Laurent's home, Jardin Majorelle. Japan is also on my list, specifically the island of Naoshima… And Marfa, Texas.

Do you collect anything in your travels?

I like to find something small and special, whether it be a beautiful scarf or an accessory so every time I wear it, I am reminded of the trip.

Where are you off to next?

I am actually off to Montana with a few friends. I have never been out West during the summer and am really looking forward to the stunning scenery and endless ways to connect with nature. We're also attending a Rodeo!

MEET KAY CHILDS: Global Art Advisor