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There are a few words that come to mind when people think of Brooklyn, various kindness and conformity. But one thing that everyone knows about the hottest neighborhood in New York (in my opinion, obviously) is that Brooklyn is known for its creativity, diversity, and constant activity.
That buzz comes with a seemingly endless art scene. So many artists and creators of all kinds of mediums live in Brooklyn, a bustling creative home. From pottery and ceramics to painting and sculpture, writing and poetry and
Among the various art events and exhibitions taking place in the district: Other art fair stands out as a unique and exciting platform for artists and art enthusiasts alike. I’ve been at least twice, most recently this past weekend.
Even though Saturday was disgustingly rainy, I headed over to the Brooklyn Navy Yard for a chance to see some art. And while I didn’t buy any art this time (I ran out of space in my tiny one-bedroom apartment), I discovered a few artists that I’m definitely keeping on my radar for future big, big purchases. small.
What else is an art fair?
The Other Art Fair is a dynamic and inclusive art fair that celebrates independent artists and showcases their work in a supportive and interactive environment. Founded by Ryan Stanier in 2011, the fair has expanded to multiple cities around the world, including Brooklyn, Chicago, Dallas, London, Los Angeles, Melbourne and Sydney.
It is an event that intentionally creates a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work directly for a diverse audience of art lovers, collectors and curators. The main differentiator here is that you’re almost certain to encounter the artists as you walk through the space.
5 tips for first time visitors
Plan your visit. Before attending the fair, take some time to research the participating artists and familiarize yourself with their styles and mediums. This will help you prioritize and make the most of your time at the event. I’ve highlighted a few artists below that I stumbled upon and really liked this past weekend.
Engage with artists. One of the unique aspects Other art fair it is an opportunity to talk directly with the artists. Take advantage of it by engaging in conversations about their inspiration, techniques, and artistic journeys. It creates a more enriching experience and allows for a deeper understanding of their artwork. All are very affordable!
Discover different works of art. The fair features a wide variety of artistic styles, mediums and subjects. Embrace the opportunity to explore different forms of expression and expand your artistic horizons. Allow yourself to be open to new experiences and perspectives.
Take notes and photos. With so many artworks on display, it can be hard to remember every piece that catches your eye. Consider taking notes or tagging the names of artists and works you like best. This will help you remember and review them later when making purchasing decisions. Always ask to photograph the artists’ work, although the general philosophy of The Other Art Fair is that photography is allowed and encouraged.
Just wander around. The joy of any art exhibit is discovering something new and unexpected. Be sure to take the time to just wander through the gallery space and be open to discovering things you might not have noticed or planned to notice otherwise.
Should I buy at another art fair?
The decision to buy art at The Other Art Fair depends on your personal preferences and willingness to invest. The fair offers a unique advantage in that it provides direct access to the artists themselves. This direct interaction provides a deeper insight into their creative process, motivations and the stories behind their creations.
If you find a piece that suits you and fits your budget, shopping for art at The Other Art Fair can be a rewarding experience. Not only are you getting a unique piece of art, but you’re directly supporting the artists, which can be meaningful for everyone involved. Plus. art comes with a story about how, where and when you bought it.
Some of my favorite artist discoveries at the 2023 Brooklyn Other Art Fair.
Borderlands by Gisela A. by Lazarte
Nonamey
The Hyperrealism of Gabriella Anouk
Helga Stenzel
Richard Hoffman’s Subversive Post Office
Kathy Southworth
Kevin Cross
Peter Carnegie
The Red Line by Alejandro Aboli
Brooklyn’s Other Art Fair offers an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of independent artists and their often personal creations. Art is always inspiring and being able to discover new art and new and emerging artists is a great way to spend the day.
When it comes to buying art, trust your instincts and consider investing if you find a piece that really speaks to you. The fair’s affordability and direct involvement of artists make it a great platform to discover and purchase artwork at affordable prices. So explore, get involved, and let The Other Art Fair be the gateway to Brooklyn’s always-exciting art scene.