To call Gilles Dyan, the founder of Opera Gallery, a visionary in the art world is an understatement. Driven by his passion for art and dedication to fostering cultural dialogue, he has expanded Opera Gallery from a single location in Singapore to a global network of 13 over the past 30 years.
Dyan’s journey began with a deep-seated love for art and an unconventional start as a door-to-door salesman selling local artists’ works. His breakthrough came with a successful art fair in Singapore, leading to the opening of his first gallery here in 1994, followed by another in Paris the same year.
He was inspired to create Opera Gallery as a welcoming space showcasing masterpieces by established artists alongside works by emerging talents, countering the intimidating atmosphere of traditional art galleries.
The early years were challenging. Initially, the gallery focused on contemporary artists, many of whom he’d met during his salesman days. The collection was then expanded to include Asian artists discovered through various galleries in Singapore and Hong Kong. However, the gallery struggled with limited resources and a lack of reputation to acquire works by masters or attract blue-chip artists.
A turning point came through Dyan’s connection with Maurice Garnier, Bernard Buffet’s Parisian art dealer, which allowed him to organise a major exhibition that significantly boosted his reputation. Despite logistical challenges, Opera Gallery persevered, laying the foundation for its success.
The recent appointment of Isabelle de La Bruyère as CEO of the Opera Gallery Group has further evolved Dyan’s role. “I have known Isabelle for over 20 years and had the privilege of working with her when she was at Christie’s,” he explains. “I have always enjoyed working with her and truly value her responsiveness and significant knowledge of both the art market and its key players.”
With the gallery’s rapid expansion, de La Bruyère’s expertise has been crucial in streamlining processes, while preserving its core identity. Their collaboration, grounded in a shared commitment to client service and art accessibility, positions Opera Gallery for continued growth and adaptation.
To mark its 30th anniversary, Opera Gallery is hosting an exhibition titled ‘The Collector 1994’, recreating the interior of an art collector’s home from 1994. Visitors can explore spaces, such as an entrance hall, living room, dining room, bedroom, and library, all designed to reflect the personal and singular relationship between a collector and his collection.
The exhibition will showcase art in a cosy, immersive setting, highlighting the intimacy of a collector’s world with personal objects, furniture, and life tracing from the year 1994. Featured works will include masterpieces by renowned artists, such as Renoir, Picasso, Magritte, Chagall, Calder, Buffet, Botero, Haring, and Soulages.
Throughout your career in the art world, what philosophies have guided you?
I have been deeply guided by the belief that art should be for everyone. It has been the cornerstone of my work and the basis of many of my initiatives. Art possesses the unique ability to transcend social and cultural boundaries, connecting people on a profound level. As a result of this belief, I have always maintained an open-door policy. I want people from all walks of life to feel welcome and encouraged to engage with art.
In what ways has Opera Gallery changed your perspective on art?
When I started, my passion stemmed from its storytelling and powerful messages. Over the years, my understanding of art’s societal role has evolved. Initially, I saw it as individual expression and creativity. However, I soon recognised its profound ability to influence society, inspire change, and foster empathy.
Art addresses pressing social issues, challenges entrenched beliefs, and evokes strong emotional responses, making it essential for cultural dialogue and reflection. I’ve seen how art unites communities, creating a shared identity and purpose.
Globally, our galleries are designed to be spaces where diverse perspectives converge, and art ignites conversations that foster understanding between people from different cultures and backgrounds.
What are some of the most profound lessons you’ve learned from artists?
The biggest lesson has been humility. I see artists as magicians, creating incredible works that stir up all kinds of emotions. Watching their magic and seeing how their art touches lives has humbled me and made me realise that true greatness comes from staying grounded and constantly striving to improve, no matter how talented you are.
How do you select artists and works for your galleries? In addition, how does the gallery balance promoting established artists with emerging ones?
Opera Gallery avoids rigid criteria when selecting artists and works. I find it easier to promote what resonates with me when I show the work of artists I admire. I follow my instincts—the art must speak to me. Our 16 galleries feature a wide variety of artists that I love. We also pay close attention to the needs of our collectors and rely on our dedicated staff, who have discovered many talented young local artists. To maintain a balance between established artists and emerging talents, we rely on the discretion of our directors at each location.
The Geneva director, for instance, has created a programme to allow emerging artists to curate their shows in a smaller space, while the main space hosts established artists. Conversely, our Dubai gallery showcases emerging talents alongside blue-chip artists.
How do you see technology affecting both collectors and artists?
The Internet and social media have become even more valuable to the art world since the shift to digital and virtual solutions during the Covid-19 pandemic. Online viewing rooms have made art more accessible. With the help of online platforms and virtual tours, technology has democratised art acquisition for collectors.
Additionally, artists have expanded their creative possibilities through digital tools and AI, while social media provides global exposure. Staying relevant and maintaining a vibrant, modern art gallery requires embracing these advancements.
What was the one artwork that changed your life?
Many pieces I’ve collected over the years hold special significance for me. But there’s one artwork that remains in my heart—and it’s not even one I own. In my childhood, I visited Madrid with my family and saw Diego Velázquez’s Las Meninas at the Prado Museum. I was mesmerised by the painting’s vibrant colours and lifelike details, which made the scene seem alive. My experience went beyond mere admiration; it sparked a profound appreciation for art that I still carry with me today. Velázquez’s work captivated me and ignited a lifelong passion for art.
