10 Steps to Success at an Art Fair

By Francisco Alvarez

Art fairs are among the best places to discover new artists, buy original work, and deepen your relationship with the art world. But without a plan, they can be overwhelming. Here is how to make the most of your next visit.

1. Plan and Prepare

Don’t arrive empty-handed. Take photos of the spaces in your home or office where you’d like to hang new work, and measure the wall dimensions. Know what you already own, so you can think about what would complement your collection.

2. Create a Wish List

Think about what type of work will complement what you already own. Do you want to focus on a particular medium — photography, painting, works on paper? A particular subject? A particular price range? Having a wish list will help you focus.

3. Determine Your Budget

Many factors influence price, and not all are obvious. Are you buying directly from the artist or through a gallery? Remember that a gallery’s role is to support the artist’s career — this has real value. Determine your budget before you go, and be realistic. A good piece of original art is not cheap, but it will last a lifetime.

4. Go with Someone You Trust

If you don’t consider yourself a confident buyer, bring a trusted friend or engage an art advisor. Don’t hesitate to ask for a second opinion before committing to a purchase.

5. Dress to Impress

One of the pleasures of art fairs is the atmosphere — fashion, creativity, and flair on full display. If you dress with care, you will feel more confident approaching galleries and artists.

6. Give Yourself Enough Time

Art fairs are stimulating but exhausting. Plan to spend most of an afternoon. Take photos of interesting works and their labels, as well as gallery information and booth location. Take a break in the café, review your photos, and return to the booths that caught your attention.

7. Consider a Commission

If you fall in love with an artist’s work but the ideal piece has sold or isn’t the right size, ask about commissioning a work. Many artists welcome commissions, and it gives you the chance to be involved in the creative process.

8. Talk to the Artist

Galleries often arrange for their artists to be present on at least one day of the fair. A conversation with the artist can be one of the most rewarding parts of the experience — and it will deepen your connection to the work.

9. Make the Deal

Galleries are eager to add you to their mailing list and will happily notify you of future works. Once you’re ready to buy, ask about payment terms. Many galleries offer staged payments, particularly for larger purchases.

10. Hang Your Work Correctly

When the work arrives, install it properly. Use D-rings secured firmly into the frame rather than hanging wire where possible, and hang the work at eye level — typically around 57 inches from the floor to the centre of the work.

All rights reserved. Francisco Alvarez is an art consultant based in Oshawa, Ontario.