Lawrence Van Hagen: Visionary Curator and Art Advisor
The global art market thrives on a delicate balance of tradition, innovation, and visionaries who shape the narrative of how art is appreciated, collected, and presented. One such influential figure is Lawrence Van Hagen, founder of LVH Art. Based in London, he has earned recognition as a curator, advisor, and cultural entrepreneur. Through his unique exhibitions, advisory services, and deep commitment to contemporary and post-war art, he has created a significant space in the international art world. This article explores his life, education, career, and philosophy, providing an in-depth portrait of a modern art tastemaker.
Early Life and Education
Childhood and Foundations
Lawrence Van Hagen grew up between Paris and London, exposed to a cosmopolitan environment that influenced his artistic vision. From a young age, he was immersed in culture, design, and art through his family background. His mother, Susanne Van Hagen, is also a noted collector and curator, which meant that Lawrence’s upbringing was closely tied to the world of exhibitions, museums, and international artistic circles.
Formal Education
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Ecole Active Bilingue Jeanine Manuel, Paris (2002–2007): A bilingual school that gave him exposure to international perspectives early in life.
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Harrow School, London (2007–2011): Prestigious British education that further nurtured his interests in culture and leadership.
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University College London (2011–2014): Studied Information Management for Business, Computer Science and Management, blending technology with business knowledge.
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Imperial College Business School (2014–2015): Earned a Master’s Degree in Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Management, equipping him with the tools to combine art with entrepreneurial strategy.
This combination of cultural upbringing and academic excellence helped shape Van Hagen’s ability to innovate within the art market.
Career Path
Founding LVH Art
In 2015, Lawrence Van Hagen launched LVH Art, an independent art advisory and curatorial practice based in London. Over the past 10 years, LVH Art has become synonymous with innovation, discretion, and expertise in building private collections.
The company focuses on:
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Personalised Advisory: Understanding each client’s unique preferences and goals.
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Global Research: Sourcing artworks from galleries, private collections, biennials, and artist studios worldwide.
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Curated Collections: Offering clients a balance of emerging talent and established names.
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Confidentiality and Trust: Operating with discretion, a hallmark of the art advisory industry.
The “What’s Up” Exhibitions
Perhaps his most celebrated initiative is the “What’s Up” series of exhibitions. Launched in 2016, these pop-up shows have been staged in London, New York, Seoul, and Hong Kong, bringing together contemporary artists, collectors, and critics.
The exhibitions are known for:
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Mixing emerging artists with established icons.
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Encouraging dialogue across artistic generations.
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Challenging traditional gallery structures by using innovative spaces.
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Attracting both seasoned collectors and young audiences.
These exhibitions positioned Van Hagen as a curator who bridges the gap between exclusivity and accessibility.
Philosophy and Approach to Art
Art as Dialogue
For Lawrence Van Hagen, art is not merely a commodity; it is a conversation. He carefully considers how works are displayed, who acquires them, and how they interact with other pieces. This philosophy ensures that each exhibition or collection tells a coherent story.
Balancing Aesthetics and Investment
He openly acknowledges that art has both aesthetic value and investment potential. However, he advises clients not to see art purely as a financial asset but to embrace it as a source of cultural enrichment.
Respect for Artists
Van Hagen is known for his ethical approach. He believes that placing a work in the wrong collection or with the wrong buyer can negatively affect an artist’s career. Therefore, he is selective in guiding acquisitions, always with respect for the artist’s long-term trajectory.
Influences and Style
Lawrence Van Hagen’s personal collection and curatorial style often reflect his admiration for minimal and conceptual art. Influences include:
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Donald Judd
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Dan Flavin
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Sol LeWitt
At the same time, he embraces diverse voices, collecting works by artists such as Tracey Emin, Christina Quarles, Donna Huanca, Issy Wood, Daniel Richter, and Ha Chong-Hyun. His taste blends European traditions with global contemporary experimentation.
Personal Life
Age
Born in September 1993, Lawrence Van Hagen is 32 years old as of 2025. This relatively young age makes his achievements in the art world all the more remarkable.
Family Connections
His mother, Susanne Van Hagen, has played a major role in shaping his path in the art world, and their collaborations reflect a strong family tradition in curation and collecting.
Partner or Wife
Van Hagen keeps his personal relationships private. Public records and interviews do not confirm marriage or a long-term partner. While his social media has hinted at personal connections, there is no verified information on a spouse. This discretion aligns with his professional image of privacy and confidentiality.
Contributions to the Art Market
Expanding Global Perspectives
Van Hagen has identified Asia, particularly South Korea, as a vital emerging art hub. His exhibitions and collaborations often spotlight regions and artists that deserve greater international recognition.
Supporting Emerging Artists
By integrating young artists into shows alongside established names, he ensures that new talent receives visibility in a competitive market.
Reimagining Exhibitions
Through unconventional venues and innovative curatorial strategies, his “What’s Up” series has redefined how art can be showcased outside of traditional galleries.
Recognition and Media Coverage
Lawrence Van Hagen’s work has been profiled in major outlets including:
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Mr Porter
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The Gentleman’s Journal
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Cultured Magazine
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Artnet News
These features often highlight his dual role as a tastemaker for younger collectors and a serious advisor for high-net-worth clients.
Legacy and Future Outlook
At just 32, Van Hagen has already built an impressive reputation as both curator and advisor. Looking ahead, his goals likely include:
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Expanding LVH Art into new global markets.
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Continuing to curate groundbreaking exhibitions.
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Supporting emerging talent with fresh platforms.
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Strengthening the bridge between aesthetic appreciation and investment insight.
With a strong educational foundation, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep respect for artists, he is well-positioned to influence the art market for decades to come.
Conclusion
Lawrence Van Hagen embodies the qualities of a modern cultural leader: entrepreneurial, internationally minded, and deeply committed to both art and its creators. His work at LVH Art has demonstrated that the role of an advisor is not just transactional but transformative. By combining innovative curatorial practices with ethical guidance, he has carved out a space where collectors, artists, and audiences can engage meaningfully.
At 32, his journey has only just begun, yet his impact on the art world is already undeniable. Whether through the intimate advisory services of LVH Art or the ambitious global reach of his “What’s Up” exhibitions, Lawrence Van Hagen continues to redefine how art is experienced and appreciated in the 21st century.
