Last week, our blogger Claire attended the preview event for the Affordable Art Fair at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Here’s what she thought of the evening.
From young fashionistas to seasoned art-investors, there was a definite buzz in the exhibition space, divided into numerous mini galleries centered round the glowing Peroni bar. While the drinks were not free, there was still a healthy crowd mingling over ice-cold Peronis and the odd bottle of champagne.
With 84 galleries on display, the compact layout made it easy to see everything on offer, although at times it did feel like you were trapped in a mind-boggling art maze, not sure if you’d already been this way or that. All part of the fun I think!
Galleria Nicolas presented solely Filipino artists, including some endearing figure paintings featuring miniscule, lengthened necks. All of the paintings in this gallery’s collection showed a lovely sense of character and personality set against bold colors and backdrops.
The UK gallery Bleach Box showcased a selection of modern photography on both small and large scales, including some very affordable limited edition prints. I particularly liked Richard Heeps’ primary colored American inspired images, and in contrast, the black and white scenes of New England by Martin Baxter.
While in art terms the pieces on display are considered affordable, I think it may still be difficult for those with a modest budget to find anything substantial for under $10,000. I saw a few small items on sale for under $5,000, but these were very modest pieces probably not suited to most. If you are planning to attend next year’s fair or a similar event, I would suggest you consider the following:
1. Do your research
Research the galleries and artists attending the event. Get an idea before you go of the artists you are interested in and their work. It’s good to find out whether the artist has won or been nominated for awards, as these aspects that will help you determine whether this is a good investment for your money.
2. Think about your space
If you do buy a piece of artwork, where will you put it? Hong Kong space is notoriously tight, you don’t want your new purchase to literally take over your apartment. Choose a wall or surface, measure it and be clear on what size your artwork should be. This will ensure the art is displayed to its best and that it improves, not overpowers your room.
3. Save, save, save
As mentioned, art isn’t cheap, even at an ‘affordable’ event. It pays to save and make an investment in something you really love, not just the piece you could afford. If you do your homework, your investment will pay off, if not in terms of money, at least in the fact you’ll have a timeless piece of art to enjoy for a long time to come.
By Claire Johnson
