Art Guides World was founded by Ché Zara Blomfield, a former gallery owner, collector, and curator with 15+ years exploring the world of art, including experience working for a multinational tourism company, where she wrote travel guides for destinations around the globe.
Ché initiated Art Guides World after overseeing the founding of Shoreditch Arts Club, a private members hospitality venue in London which opened in 2023. During her time there, as curator and creative lead, she recognised how new audiences are craving to engage with the arts, while simultaneously galleries, cultural institutions, artists and creatives, are struggling to reach them.
Enter Art Guides World: The project launched on May Day in Tāmakai Makaurau Auckland, Ché’s hometown of Aotearoa New Zealand, during the Aotearoa Art Fair publishing itineraries to encourage gallery visits, and interviews to understand the localities. In June she headed straight to Zürich in Switzerland for Art Weekend followed by Art Basel – arguably the most prestigious fair on the global calendar, and an event she had been frequenting for over a decade, to trial ambitious programmes with local and international clients.
Ché Zara Blomfield. Portrait by Maurice Haas, Zürich.
In 2025, Art Guides World travelled from Switzerland throughout Europe, including visits to Germany, Mallorca, and London, publishing travel insights provided through three question interviews with local creative professionals – including artists, curators, and gallery owners – to help others navigate the world of art in their own time.
In 2026, Art Guides World plans to go further afield, launching guides to Mexico, LA, New York and beyond, with exciting experiences and collaborative products in the pipeline.
We believe art and culture belongs to everyone and see it as a powerful force for gaining new perspectives. When we meet in person, every question can lead to an enriching conversation. Art Guides World are excited to be on the journey with you, and hope to see you soon!
Louisa Gagliardi, Roundabout, 2023, 270 x 360 cm. Image courtesy Galerie Eva Presenhuber.