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The global contemporary art scene is growing each year, leading to an increase in the number of art fairs that are held in countries all over the world. From London to Hong Kong to Miami, these are the art fairs that are definitely worth taking a trip for.
Art Basel, Basel, Switzerland
Originally established in 1970 in Basel, Switzerland, Art Basel experienced so much success that it now also has two satellite editions; one in Hong Kong and one in Miami. While it may not be the oldest of art fairs, it is by far the largest, and has set a new standard for other art fairs around the world to follow. Always featuring the highest calibre of art, the fair takes place over five days in June each year, while its Hong Kong edition usually takes place in March and its Miami edition in December. With public art presentations, performances, forums, book signings and panel talks arranged throughout its five-day run, this is most definitely the art fair for just about any contemporary art enthusiast out there.
Frieze Art Fair, London, UK
Held each year in October in London’s Regent’s Park, the Frieze Art Fair is probably Art Basel’s fiercest competitor, featuring work from around 200 different galleries around the world. The pieces at this fair are sectioned off into three categories; the Main Galleries, the Focus section for newer and younger galleries, and a Live section featuring participatory pieces. Frieze also commissions a number of sculptures to be created on the fairgrounds each year, and this is another highlight of the fair. Just like Art Basel, Frieze has its own successful satellite edition that is held in New York.
FIAC, Paris, France
The Foire Internationale d’Art Contemporain is held each October in some of Paris’ most stunning venues, from the Grand Palais to the Jardin des Plantes. The fair was first held in 1970, and, just like the other art fairs mentioned above, FIAC has also launched a satellite edition, with the first show due to take place in Los Angeles this year. Unlike many other art fairs around the world, FIAC is aimed at the public as well as collectors, and there is a concerted effort to ensure that there are pieces available to suit just about every budget. FIAC features just under 200 different galleries from 25 different countries around the world, many of them based in Paris itself, and, with the number of incredible art museums in the city, you can be sure that you will find some treasures at this fair.
The number of art fairs around the world is rapidly on the increase, and while some may not adhere to the highest level of quality, the art fairs mentioned above are definitely some of the best in the world. Whether you are a serious art collector looking to purchase, or an amateur enthusiast wanting to browse, art fairs are always fun, and educational, to explore, so do check these ones out if you ever get the chance.
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