For the next instalment of our interview series, Trunk Talks, we sat down with Dr Andreas Ritter, founder and partner of the legal firm Ritter & Partner Rechtsanwälte. The firm deals specifically with the art market but also covers a range of other creative industries and, due to Andreas’ broad expertise in these areas, has become unique in its tailored approach toward each client. A long-time friend of Trunk, we asked Andreas about his background in art law, what he loves about Zurich and, most importantly, what good style means to him.
Where are you from?
As a cab driver from LA would say: born and raised in Zurich.
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you arrived at the intersection between art and law?
I have always been passionate about art, which was also true during my law studies. And so it was an obvious move for me to combine art and law. These two disciplines probably couldn't have been farther apart at the time. In fact, it was precisely this tension that fascinated me and continues to fascinate me to this day. I am privileged to work in a field that is constantly evolving. For instance, when it comes to new digital models like NFTs, there are many layers to cover, provenance issues, copyright questions and much more.
You founded your own law firm, Ritter & Partner in 2000. What was it that motivated you to start your own practice?
Back in the early 00s, my former practice was much broader; I had built a boutique law firm with colleagues, one of whom specialized in sports and the other in media. In combination with my specialities (stage, music, film, design, art, fashion), we were covering the whole range of "entertainment law." In 2012, I wanted to take another crack at it and dive deeper into the field of art law. Fortune was with me and I can now devote myself to those mandates in my mini-structure that are almost exclusively related to the art market.
What role does Zurich play in your work?
Zurich is a great art hub, featuring the best art fair in nearby Basel, excellent private and public art collections, museums, dealerships, and the Freeport. All in all, it's a perfect setting for my practice.
How is it like to have your office in Seefeld? Also so close to Trunk and Monocle?
I pass by every morning to grab my cappuccino. We also live nearby with the family, just behind the Utoquai bath station, and even my small motor vessel is parked close by. All in all, Seefeld is the perfect neighbourhood for both leisure and work—or the other way around.
Can you tell us what you love about Zurich and some of your favourite spots in the city?
As a self-confessed art addict, Zurich for me is an art mecca with its many important collections, museums, galleries and artist-run spaces. In summer as a family we are out on our bikes and literally, just across the street, you find Utoquai, the most beautiful bathing facility on the whole lake - I can practically jump into the lake from our window. I also love the alternative neighbourhoods of Kreis 3, 4 and 5, where there is an ever-changing variety of new places, restaurants and stores. As I enumerate this, I realise how spoiled we are. Very spoiled!
Do you have any favourite or go-to brands from Trunk?
I love to discover small and local brands that are off the beaten path. A few years ago I bought my first jacket from Barena, now I am a loyal customer. I love the blend of casual and formal.
Style is obviously very important to you, do you follow a particular formula when it comes to what you wear?
Buy little but buy well! Quality is crucial for me and also important is where the goods were made. Plus: Stay true to yourself and once you find your style, your framework so to speak, don't deviate from it too much. Expand your collection with a couple of new additions. That's all. If you feel boring, it will not be because of your forever-blue summer suit with a white shirt.
Lastly, how will you be spending your summer?
Like every year, "Mare e Monti." We'll have a vacation at the seaside on a small island near Sicily and a hiking vacation in late summer in our old farmhouse in the Engadine.
Andreas wears a matching double-breasted jacket and trousers set from Barena and shirt from Finamore.