Asia’s first Affordable Art Fair (AAF), which offers a platform for both established and up-and-coming artists, will be held in Singapore from November 19-21 this year at the F1 Pit Building, Marina South.

More than 60 galleries from Singapore, Asia, Australia and Europe will showcase contemporary artworks all priced between $100 and $10,000, and with 75 percent of the pieces priced below $7,500.

“The success of AAF has been built on debunking the myth that collecting art is only for the rich, its ability to reach out to people from all walks of life, in a new and engaging way, ” said Camilla Hewitson, AAF Singapore’s Fair Director.

“Most of us think that original art pieces are way beyond our reach, but the stunning success of AAF around the world has proved that this is not the case.

“It is the perfect occasion for all, from the first time art buyer to the seasoned collector. AAF proves that high-quality, affordable art is there for everybody to enjoy, she added

The AAF originated in London in 1999 and is now a key annual event in eight major cities worldwide, including New York, Amsterdam, Brussels and Sydney (launching in Milan in 2011). Over the past ten years, more than 780,000 people have visited the Fairs and have spent more than £122 million (S$250 million).

It has a history of featuring the work of artists on the brink of success, which makes it both a reputable and popular art-buying forum, and has generated a loyal following.

Will Ramsay, the Fair Founder, added: “Fundamentally, we believe that art should be for everybody – that is the main aim of the AAF.

“We are delighted that Singapore’s National Arts Council (NAC) and OCBC Arts Platinum Card is working with us to generate new collectors and to stimulate the art market in the city through the programming featured at the Fair,” he said.

Young talent and established names

AAF Singapore will showcase many diverse mediums: painting, photography, sculpture, drawings and print works.

Established artists from Singapore and beyond will be represented,  including Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Australia, and Europe

The Fair  also presents and promotes the finest local young talent through a specific  ‘Recent Graduates’ section!

Art for everyone

The relaxed and fun atmosphere of AAF Singapore will be complemented with many special activities including free printmaking demonstrations by local printmakers, where visitors can learn about different techniques.

There will also be a chance to learn more about contemporary art from Sotheby’s Institute, AAF Singapore’s education partner, in a series of free talks covering topics such as “Why buy art, for love or for money?”

In addition, children’s workshops will provide young visitors  the chance to get creative while a free, professional wrapping service will be available on-site so that buyers can take their works home as soon as they buy them.

The F1 Paddocks are located at Marina Bay South and offer easy access by public transport and ample parking. A restaurant, wine bar and café will offer visitors the chance to enjoy a drink or meal before heading back to browse among the diverse mixture of galleries.

Commenting on Singapore’s selection as the first venue in Asia for AAF, Ms Hewitson said:  “The entire Arts scene in Singapore is growing very fast.  It is becoming one of the premier hubs in Asia in terms of attracting visitors from all over the region.

“Singapore is the natural home for the first Asian AAF. With its active gallery and museum scene and diverse population, the AAF model will compliment this budding art scene by reaching out to a wide audience to learn more about the joys of owning contemporary art in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

“And locally, Singaporeans are very keen to explore new concepts, particularly those with a great track record in the international market place.

“In short, it will be  the perfect opportunity to look, love and leave with your perfect piece of art,” she added.

Notes to editor:

The Affordable Art Fair, Singapore
Venue: F1 Pit Building (1 Republic Boulevard)
Dates: Friday 19 – Sunday 21 November 2010

Opening Times
Friday 19 November 11am – 10pm
Saturday 20 November 11am – 7pm
Sunday 21 November 11am – 5pm

Ticket Prices (at the door):
General Admission: $10
Students & Seniors: $7
Credit Card Promotion: All OCBC Credit & Debit Cardmembers will receive a 20% discount  general admission ticket prices.