Capital set for head-turner prize
The attention of art lovers will be diverted by an esteemed annual art exhibition to be held again in Edinburgh this weekend, writes Sarah Devine
Edinburgh is a city that attracts the world’s art lovers in their droves, thanks to its collection of globally famous galleries. However, the Edinburgh Art Fair has been showcasing hundreds of international artists to thousands of art enthusiasts in Scotland’s Capital for 14 years now.
This year’s event will be held at the Edinburgh Corn Exchange at the weekend and is set to bring together representatives of 60 national and international galleries as well the work of 500 artists from across the globe.
Organisers expect more than 13,500 collectors and art enthusiasts to attend, making it the biggest event of its kind in the UK outside London.
The three-day contemporary art fair is now Scotland’s longest running, and it provides an annual platform for galleries to sell their works in all mediums, including oil on canvas, prints, sculpture, photography and ceramics.
Galleries to look out for include Eduardo Alessandro Studios, Royal Terrace Art Gallery, Enid Hutt Gallery, Fotheringham Gallery, Jo Bennett Originals, Moy Mackay Gallery and The Whitehouse Gallery.
The event will also highlight striking and imaginative installations from Denmark’s Bruno Dahl Gallery and colourful abstracts from South Korea’s Gallery Godo. The fair’s impressive international reach means pieces from Gibraltar and China, among others, are much-anticipated. Whatever the price range or artistic style, Edinburgh Art Fair’s exhibitors promise to showcase something for everyone at sums to suit all pockets. All kinds of art, including sculptures in marble, metal and bronze, will be on sale from £100 up to five figures.
The eclectic range of high-quality pieces available over the last four years has led to sales of £1 million being recorded at each event, as well as many high-value after sales being taken up in the weeks following.
To ensure original art can be purchased with ease, the event organisers have teamed up with London-based non-profit group Own Art to provide an interest-free loan scheme for buyers.
However, the weekend will provide a great opportunity for anyone who simply seeks artistic inspiration rather than a purchase, and there will be the chance to get hands-on with arts and crafts sessions aimed at all ages.
Professional artists are lined up to host workshops and talks, while refreshments will be provided. n Edinburgh Art Fair is on from tomorrow until Sunday. For tickets, visit www.artedinburgh.com
“Whatever the price range or artistic style, exhibitors promise to showcase something for everyone at sums to suit all pockets”