Following its huge success as an annual event, the Affordable Art Fair is launching a second Fair in Singapore – from May 23 – 25 at the F1 Pit Building, giving art lovers twice the opportunity to find their perfect piece!
The introduction of a May edition Fair has seen overwhelming support from the art community, including first-timers Red Corridor Gallery from Germany and Nikei Fine Arts from Singaapore, as well as Bicha Gallery from the UK and Utterly Art from Singapore. Exciting new works from more than 400 new and emerging contemporary artists will be on show alongside established, wellknown names, so whether visitors are looking for a traditional piece, or something contemporary and stylish, there are works of art for everyone.
Among the featured artists will be up-and-coming international names such as Yang Peng of China and Chitmanee Chongwitookit of Thailand, as well as emerging local talent Don Low and pioneer artist Goh Beng Kwan. With the price of work starting at S$100 and everything under S$10,000 (with 75 percent priced under S$7,500.) there is work to suit every budget.
The May Fair will mark a major milestone in the 15 year history of the brand and will be the 100th Fair since it was founded in London in 1999. To commemorate the landmark, the Fair has announced it will be hosting a 100th feature exhibition comprising of a selection of mini artworks donated from across the globe and from a range of different artists, priced at $100 each.
Representing Singapore’s 5th Fair the artworks are required to be A5 sized. Proceeds from the sales of the selected works will be donated to The Red Pencil Humanitarian Mission, an international art therapy charity, which seeks to assist children in overwhelming situations and
following international disasters.
And to push artistic boundaries even further, the Fair’s Official Furniture Partner, Fred Lives Here, will offer two to four artists an opportunity to work their magic on Fred’s furniture to create a new collection, using Fred Lives Here furniture as a canvas. The selected works will be showcased at the Fair, and also sold at Fred’s store after the Fair. It’s so exciting you might need to sit down!
Underscoring its aim of democratising the art world, the Affordable Art Fair will run a series of art programmes, including a new, gallery ‘speed dating’ tour. Visitors will have the chance to sign up for a half hour, guided tour, taking in five different galleries, to learn about specific mediums, artists and tips on buying and collecting art directly from the experts themselves. Fair-goers will also have the opportunity to rest their feet and recharge after enjoying a tour, at the garden themed food court. Delicious food and dessert will be offered at the stalls, allowing guests to sip wine while contemplating which artworks they have fallen in love with.
While adults enjoy the tours, the young ones can have fun at the Children’s Art Studio. Rolling up their sleeves, to indulge in some fun, kids can learn art techniques such as paint blowing, leaf stamping and finger painting.
Will Ramsay, the Fair founder, comments: “This Fair marks a historic event for us and we’re delighted to be celebrating it in Singapore, the first Affordable Art Fair in Asia, four years ago. The strength of our niche in the art market is increasing across all regions and it is clear there is a hunger and a growing awareness, worldwide, for affordable contemporary art . “
Fair Director, Camilla Hewitson explains, “This year, the Affordable Art Fair will take place in 13 cities around the world. Each Fair reflects local culture and taste, and in Singapore this May we are building on the success of our November event around the world by introducing more fun and educational experiences.”
“As part of DBS’ commitment to be a leading wealth manager in Asia, we are always looking for unique sponsorship platforms that aim to engage, enrich and educate. The regional partnership with the Affordable Art Fair is one such platform and we have received positive feedback from our clients following the huge success of the fair last year. We are delighted to be working with Affordable Art Fair again to cater to the increasing interest in the arts and culture among our clients,” says Koh Kar Siong, Regional Head of DBS Treasures and Treasures Private Client, DBS Bank.
Click here for more details of the Affordable Art Fair Singapore May edition.
