Navigating Art Fairs

What is an art fair?

Art fairs are dynamic events that bring together artists, galleries, collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts. Attending an art fair can be an enriching way to view a wide range of artworks, network with people in the art world, and potentially acquire pieces for your collection. Depending on the size and scope, art fairs can at first seem tricky to navigate. We’ve got you covered with our FairArt Guide to Navigating Art Fairs.

London Art Fair 2023. Photo credit Mark Cocksedge

What should I do before an art fair?

Research:

• Explore the participating galleries and artists. Familiarise yourself with their styles, mediums, and backgrounds.
• Check the fair's website for opening times, featured artists, talks, and special events.
• Take note of any specific rules or guidelines set by the art fair organisers, which could include entry protocols, safety measures, or any other instructions provided.

Plan Ahead:

• Depending on the size and scope of the fair, it may be overwhelming trying to navigate it all on one go. Create a list of galleries or artists you want to prioritise seeing.
• Note the fair's layout and important locations (entrance, restrooms, cafes) to navigate efficiently.
• When attending an art fair, it's often a good idea to dress comfortably yet stylishly. You'll want to wear something that allows you to move around easily as you navigate through the booths and potentially spend a significant amount of time on your feet.

Tickets and Timing:

• Purchase tickets in advance if possible to avoid long queues.
• Consider attending on quieter days or times for a better viewing experience.

London Art Fair, Business Design Centre

What should I do during an art fair?

Take Your Time:

• Pace yourself and don't rush through. Take time to appreciate each artwork.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Unlike a museum or gallery setting, there is less context provided about artists and their artwork. Gallery representatives are often eager to provide more information. Ask questions about the artworks, the techniques used, or the inspiration behind them. This can lead to insightful conversations and deepen your understanding and appreciation of the art.

Engage and Network:

• Strike up conversations with artists, gallery owners, and fellow attendees.
• Attend talks, discussions, or guided tours to gain insights from experts.

Stay Open-Minded:

• Explore different genres, styles, and mediums. You might discover something new and unexpected.

Note-Taking and Documentation:

• Jot down notes or take photos (if permitted) of artworks you find intriguing or want to research later.
• Collect business cards or contact information for future reference.

London Art Fair 2023. Photo credit Mark Cocksedge

What should I do after an art fair?

Reflect and Review:

• Review your notes or photos and further research artists or pieces that captured your interest.
• Consider your budget and preferences before making any purchases.

Follow-Up:

• If interested in particular artists or artworks, reach out to the relevant gallery to continue discussions or express interest in their work.

Feedback:

• Provide feedback to the organisers if you have suggestions or comments about the fair.

While art fairs are great spaces for all different types of people with varying industry knowledge to frequent, they also require a specific type of etiquette:

Respect the Art and Artists: Be respectful of the artwork and the artists themselves. Refrain from touching the art unless explicitly allowed. Treat the pieces with care and avoid causing any damage.

Photography Etiquette: Some art fairs permit photography while others may not. If allowed, be considerate when taking photos. Avoid using flash (if not permitted), and be mindful of others around you when trying to capture an artwork.

Be Ready to Purchase: If you’re interested in purchasing art, be prepared. Have a budget in mind and be ready to discuss pricing or any potential transactions with the artists or gallery representatives. However, don’t feel pressured to buy if you’re not ready.

Enjoy the Atmosphere: Art fairs often have a vibrant atmosphere with live performances, talks, or workshops. Take advantage of these opportunities to further engage with the art community and learn more about various artistic practices.

Art fairs offer an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the art world, discover new talent, and expand your artistic horizons. Enjoy the experience and embrace the diversity of creative expressions on display!

Courtesy of Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair

What are the most famous art fairs?

Notable art fairs in London include the London Art Fair, Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair, London Original Print Fair, The Other Art Fair, Affordable Art Fair, and Frieze.

There are numerous art fairs around the world that are renowned for showcasing contemporary and modern art, including: Art Basel (Switzerland, Hong Kong, and Miami Beach), The Armory Show (New York), Documenta (Germany), Art Dubai (United Arab Emirates), and the Venice Biennale (Italy).