Art lovers from across the UK are expected to once again flock to Manchester for this year’s Buy Art Fair.
Preparations are already underway for this year’s event, which takes place at Old Granada Studios from September 24 to 27
Since the Buy Art Fair, which is the largest of its kind outside London, started in 2008, collectors with all manner of tastes and budgets have spent more than £2.5m on pieces from exhibitors.
A refreshed brand inspired by ‘salon hanging’, the way buyers often display art in their homes, and a host of new developments and additions for 2015 will cement the fair’s place in the cultural Northern Powerhouse.
Buy Art Fair CEO Thom Hetherington has promised visitors ‘the richest and most compelling art-buying experience yet’.
He said: “The art world does not stand still. Therefore we have to be just as dynamic in the ways that we offer interaction between art buyers, artists, gallerists and curators.
“Old Granada Studios is a raw, exciting space that cries out for innovation and creativity and we are confident that we have responded.”
This year’s line up includes a programme of cultural talks and conversations, a top-notch food and drink offering from the city’s big-hitters Living Ventures, music and live performances, print workshops and artists painting live, guest installations, guided tours of The Manchester Contemporary, as well as the chance to hang before you buy in bespoke room sets.
There’s even a concierge service to help buyers find the right piece.
Thom added: “Manchester’s cultural renaissance is undeniable, led by Manchester International Festival, Whitworth Art Gallery and HOME, along with smaller spaces like Castlefield Gallery.
“It is a momentum that is happening across the North and I think our art buyers, who come from across the region, feel proud and excited not only to have the chance to acquire wonderful pieces of art but also to be part of the process of supporting and nurturing the arts scene up here.”
Visitors can combine a browse around Buy Art Fair with the chance to get out and explore the city’s cultural offerings, from big names to hidden gems, with an official art trail map.
There will also be exclusive special offers to discover Manchester’s growing food.
And with just fifteen the Buy Art Fair opens its doors, Hetherington has one piece of advice for potential buyers: “Do your research ahead of time. Images of all of the art from all our artists and galleries will be listed on the Buy Art Fair and The Manchester Contemporary websites by late Summer, and if you know who and what you are coming to see then it makes the experience so much easier and more productive when you walk through the door.
“Aside from that, don’t agonise. If you love it and you can afford it, just buy it!”
For further information and to register for free tickets, visit www.buyartfair.co.uk or www.themanchestercontemporary.com
