The self-proclaimed “rebellious cousin of stuffy, traditional art events,” The Other Art Fair will take place at Sydney’s White Bay Cruise Terminal from 3rd-6th October 2024. Presented by Saatchi Art, the fair will feature over 120 artist booths, participatory installations and dynamic programs, as well as a plethora of bars and dining experiences.
The Other Art Fair occurs three times in Australia annually – in Sydney in May and October, and in Melbourne in February – a sign of the event’s success as a platform for independent artists to sell their work to art-interested audiences. Whilst it does not view itself as a pipeline for artists to seek gallery representation, there are often gallerists in attendance looking for new artist discoveries – and discoveries there are to be made.
With artworks by over 120 artists that range in price from a few hundred dollars into the thousands, the fair showcases a diversity of media and genres for both new and seasoned art buyers to explore and purchase. Participating artists are chosen by a selection committee, and the process is competitive – 120 out of approximately 300 applications are admitted.
Variation of art on offer is important to The Other Art Fair. Fair Director Luke Potkin states: “There is something for everyone – we are not prescriptive, but we do give the artists guidance. There is always something new. We want to create a fun and welcoming place for people to look at art and buy art.”
Moreover, the fair is fully invested in both the commercial viability of the event, in delivering an audience with an appetite to buy, and the success of the artists’ presentations (they receive 18 per cent commission on all artwork sales). Expecting approximately 10,000 people across the four days with a target of $1m in sales, the event injects a boost to this sector of the art market, three times a year. Potkin is optimistic: “The art market is tough at the moment, but we expect strong sales and attendance. White Bay Cruise Terminal is a great venue with free parking and easy access for visitors.”
Artist booth highlights include sculptural assemblages by Brett Piva, photographs by Kate Baker, ink on paper works by Hee Ra Kim, textiles by Sara Prince, abstract paintings by Matthew Cauchi and beaded glass mixed media works by Sarah-Emma Mather Brown.
Looking to launch her new career as an artist at the fair is Kyly Boldy Clarke. The model who was previously married to former Australian Cricket Captain Michael Clarke is enthusiastic as a first-time participant, stating: “I’m honoured to be participating in such an important moment in Sydney’s cultural calendar.”
Established in London and now celebrating its 100th edition globally, Founder Ryan Stainer states: “Sydney and Melbourne have embraced The Other Art Fair with an energy and creativity that’s unmatched. The Australian market has truly been the beating heart of our success.” To mark the special edition, Potkin has commissioned the illustrator and cartoonist John Paine to create 100 art history-related drawings, which will make up an interactive colouring-in mural for visitors to complete throughout the fair days. In addition to this, attendees can participate in drawing classes, and even get a tattoo.
Returning to the fair is Nah Mate Pokes, a stick and poke artist from Sydney whose work ranges from childlike hand-drawn pieces to delicate, clean-lined images. Potkin muses: “You would be surprised by the volume of people who have got their first tattoo at The Other Art Fair – my wife included!”
Potkin sums it up best: “For people who have not been in this environment before, the art world is not intimidating. You don’t have to have any prior knowledge, just come and have a look. I get excited when an artist shows their work for the first time, or visitors come and have a great experience. This is why we keep doing this, to expand the market.” So, go along and dip your toe in – you could even get it tattooed.
The Other Art Fair runs at White Bay Cruise Terminal, Sydney.
Opening night: Thursday 3rd October, 5-10pm.
Opening hours: Friday 4th October 3-10pm, Saturday 5th October 10am-6pm, and Sunday 6th October 10am-5pm.
