Even for someone who is in the industry, I get confused with all the art fairs that are happening during art month here in Hong Kong. Apart from Art Central and Asia Contemporary Art Fair; there is also the 6th Affordable Art Fair to be happening this May.
What makes Affordable Art Fair different though, is not what a lot of people presume – which is their focus on emerging artists with their ‘Special Projects’ program. What I think makes them very different from the other annual fairs is their line up with Sovereign Art Foundation and Joyful (Mental Health) Foundation for #ForArtsSake in support of art therapy. This city is not only struggling to give recognition to artists, but also to those who are struggling with mental wellbeing; and Affordable Art Fair’s urge in raising awareness for such a matter makes them very relevant to the general public who is wishing to learn about art.
Artists including Gabriel Moreno (ES), Natasha Barnes (SA), Jody (UK), David Hinchliffe (AU) and Wong Ting Fung (HK) will be producing work live to raise money for the charities, and 100% of the proceeds of the special totes bags created by Vanessa Wong (HK) will also go to the charity. Not to mention, live life-drawing sessions by Sergei Rozhnov (RU) and dance performances will happen throughout the Friday evening.
As for the fair itself, a total of 115+ galleries will be participating, showcasing inspiring installations, offering live demonstrations, provided guided tours, and setting up a creative hub for everyone to experience art. This year in particular, they are welcoming a range of large-scale installations including ““POPek” dog by Sebastian Burdon (UK), “Container Hong Kong” by Hong Kong and China artist collaboration i-MOST Alternative Space, “#SignHackHK” by Loiix Fung (HK), “SAME AND DIFFERENT” by Antoinette Rozan (FR/HK) and “Journey#(Moment)” by Cha Jaeyoung (KR)” just to name a few.
“The fair is an inspiring platform that enriches, informs and expands the community’s knowledge of the art world, and aims to make the atmosphere engaging for families of all ages.”
Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong 2018
18 – 20 May 2018
Hall 3D&E, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre