About Romany WG: More Than Just a Shop
Romany WG was born from a shared frustration with the impersonal nature of buying art books online. We missed the tactile experience, the informed recommendation, and the sense of discovery you get from a specialist bookshop like The Photographers’ Gallery Bookshop in London. So, we decided to build a different kind of space—one that values connection as much as commerce.
Our Mission: To Curate, Not Just Collect
Our goal is to build a meaningful library, not just a stock list. We actively seek out the vital, the innovative, and the overlooked, with a keen focus on emerging artists and the exceptional output of independent presses like Mack Books and Loose Joints.
Why Curation Matters
In a sea of endless titles, curation is our guiding principle. It means every book on our virtual shelves has been chosen for its artistic merit, its contribution to the discourse, or its sheer beauty. We filter out the noise so you can find the signal.
Supporting the Art Ecosystem
When you buy from us, you’re supporting a wider creative chain. We champion publishers and artists who take risks, ensuring your purchase helps fuel the next generation of compelling work.
Our Editorial Focus: Informed, Opinionated Reviews
We believe a great book deserves a great review. Ours go beyond simple summaries, offering critical context and personal takes. Whether it’s a groundbreaking title from Self Publish, Be Happy or a new monograph by an icon like Martin Parr, we tell you why it matters.
What Makes a Review ‘Romany’
A ‘Romany’ review is written by someone who has genuinely engaged with the book. We discuss:
- The quality of the reproduction and sequencing.
- The artist’s intent and the book’s place in their wider practice.
- How the physical object feels—its binding, paper stock, and design.
Beyond the Price Tag
While we clearly list the contemporary art books price, our reviews aim to articulate a book’s true value. We help you understand what you’re investing in, making your decision an informed one.
Our Team Approach: A Collective Eye
Every selection and piece of content is a collaborative effort from our small, London-based team of curators, photographers, and designers. This collective eye ensures a richer, more diverse perspective.
Who We Are
Our editorial team is made up of practising creatives and seasoned enthusiasts. We’re the people in the galleries, at the book fairs, and in the studios, constantly looking for what’s next.
How We Work Together
From initial discovery to final review, our process is built on debate and shared passion. A book isn’t listed until it has passed under the considered gaze of several team members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Romany WG based?
Our editorial team is based in London, UK. We draw immense inspiration from the city’s vibrant art scene, which directly informs our curatorial choices.
Do you only sell photography books?
While photography is a core passion and we feature leading names like Martin Parr, our focus is on contemporary visual culture broadly. You’ll find exceptional titles spanning contemporary art, illustration, and design from publishers like Mack Books.
How do you choose which books to stock?
Our selection is driven by curation, not algorithms. We prioritise artistic quality, innovative publishing (such as from Self Publish, Be Happy), and works we believe will resonate with and challenge our community of readers.
Are your reviews independent?
Absolutely. Our reviews are entirely independent and reflect the honest, considered opinions of our editorial team. We are committed to providing genuine critical context to help you choose the best contemporary art books.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we do. We are a UK-based shop with a global outlook, and we ship our curated selection of contemporary art books worldwide.
Ultimately, Romany WG is an invitation. An invitation to join a conversation, to discover with purpose, and to become part of a community of readers who believe in the power of the printed page. We’re more than a shop; we’re a resource built on passion and shared curiosity.