HELPFUL TIPS : VISITING AAF NYC AND BUYING ART

Get a Booklet! 

Pick up a booklet and look at our map.  Plan your route, take notes of what you see and like!  It is important to remind yourself of what you want to revisit or still have left to see!

Speak up!

Don't be afraid to ask questions! Exhibitors are happy to talk and this is a great way to get firsthand knowledge about the work and/or artist. When you are considering an artwork, ask about the artist, where they are from, how long they have been with the gallery, if their work is included in any major collections, or if the artist has won any public art prizes. Remember, the exhibitors are there to help you.

Come ready!

Preparation is a golden rule of life, and shopping at an art fair is no exception. Take time to think about what will work best in your space.  Do you need a large or small piece, something vertical or horizontal, will the work be exposed to a lot of sun, what colors will work best, who will be seeing the work (are you putting it in a bedroom or living room)?  Just don't set out looking for only one specific thing, embrace all possibilities that work in your guidelines!

Budget! Budget! Budget!

Know what you are willing to (and what you can) spend and stick to it!   If the piece that has caught your eye is out of your budget, ask if there are any other works by the same artist especially in a different medium. Original prints, such as screen prints and etchings, are a great entry-level option as they can be lower in price than a painting.  Also ask what forms of payment are available - many galleries offer interest-free installment plans.

Look again-take your time-and follow your heart!

Take some time out to have a drink or a snack  and think through your choices. Once you have considered your options, return to your shortlist of pieces with fresh eyes and a clear mind. If you can't stop thinking about the piece and have the perfect space for it-you will most likely have made the right decision. If you feel you need for some more time to decide, AAF allows free re-entry on another day of the event, so you can go home, look at the space again, and imagine your soon-to-be purchase there. Beware though - you don't want to be left broken hearted if you return to find the piece that caught your eye has been taken by someone else!   

And, most importantly HAVE FUN!!!

ART IS FUN!! Art is created to be exciting so have a good time while searching for your next, or first, great piece. Art fairs are here to encourage creativity and being around such enthusiasm for art can be a wonderful experience. ENJOY!