Founded in 1994 by husband-and-wife team Prosper and Martine Assouline, the eponymous publishing company makes the most memorable and beautifully produced books on art and culture. When they founded the company, the couple created a new model for the publishing industry, where books themselves became luxury objects worthy of being showcased. Over its 25 year history, Assouline has published a library of 1,500 titles, and established a network of international boutiques that completely re-imagine what a bookstore can be. 

Now, the second generation of the family is expanding the business: it is no surprise that Alex Assouline, vice president of the brand, inherited his parents’ indefatigable enthusiasm and impeccable taste. Under his leadership, Assouline releases 50 to 60 books a year and has expanded its offerings to include homegoods such as incredibly covetable candles. One of Assouline’s latest titles is Roy Lichtenstein: The Impossible Collection, a stunning, large-scale tome documenting the Pop artist’s greatest works.

We caught up with Alex on one of his brief touchdowns in New York to find out what fuels the creative decisions that define his day-to-day, and what artworks are currently at the top of his wish list.

Alex’s Favorite…

Work in his collection: A sculpture by Jean Cocteau of the beast from his version of Beauty and the Beast.

Party favor: A disco ball.

Breakfast food: Fresh papaya with lime.

Show to binge watch: Sherlock on BBC.

Museum: The Egyptian aisle at The Met in New York.

New artist: Victoria Villasana (@villanaart).

Kitchen utensil: A mezzaluna, which has an incredibly practical shape.

Job he has ever had: The one I have now. I wouldn’t trade what I do for anything!

I would say that my style varies whether it is in clothing, music taste, or architecture – being open-minded is crucial when you work in a creative field. I am curious by nature, and when I see certain details on the street or in artworks, my mind starts bouncing with ideas and inspiration immediately; it’s very motivating to find beauty and new viewpoints in the things that surround you. What most attracts my attention is the simplicity of forms and the research that goes into typography. –Alex Assouline

Untitled

Cindy Sherman

Cindy Sherman, Untitled. Courtesy of Willem Photographic.

Untitled (2004)

Rudolf Stingel

Rudolf Stingel, Untitled (2004). Courtesy of Inigo Philbrick.

Elizabeth Taylor: National Velvet (2002)

David LaChapelle

David LaChapelle, Elizabeth Taylor: National Velvet (2002). Courtesy of Staley-Wise Gallery.

Untitled, from Plots on Loan I (2000)

Raymond Pettibon

Raymond Pettibon, Untitled, from Plots on Loan I (2000). Courtesy of Leslie Sacks Gallery.

Buste De Femme De Jeune Fille, D’apres Cranach (1966)

Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso, Buste De Femme De Jeune Fille,
D’apres Cranach (1966). Courtesy of Guy Hepner.

Untitled (2009)

Bosco Sodi

Bosco Sodi, Untitled (2009). Courtesy of Galeria Jordi Pascual.

Find your own favorites by browsing artnet Galleries and finding the next addition to your collection.