The Affordable Art Fair 2024 occurred at the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Center on May 16th - 19th. This was my 2nd year exhibiting at the Affordable Art Fair and it was my great honor and pleasure to be part of the 'Hong Kong Art Collective' stand that included 15 talented local artists. This year I had a larger wall space that allowed me to show 10 original artworks at the same time. All my artwork has been professionally mounted into custom-made frames that feature specialized UV-blocking acrylic glazing. This is necessary to protect original watercolour artworks from fading over time with the UV-blocking acrylic preserving the paint pigments from natural sunlight.
Last year was my first time participating in this premier art event, and I felt truly honored to have been invited back again by the Hong Kong Art Collective, to join their booth a second time.
Just like last year, I was assigned wall space on the outside of the booth, near a main thoroughfare. On the one hand, this could be considered a prime spot, as there could be the potential for many passersby to view my artwork. However, I did have a minor case of ‘FOMO’ (feeling of missing out) as I felt a little bit left out of the action and excitement taking place inside the booth, where many visitors would congregate and chat. If I am invited back next year, I may request wall space on the inside area of the stand to have more direct interaction with attendees. At least I will have a point of reference to judge whether there is any difference between inside or outside locations.
One aspect of art fairs like this that can be challenging is the amount of time spent standing on one's feet. As artists, we were encouraged to be present during the fair so that we could chat with potential buyers and explain our artwork and creative processes. Having had knee replacement surgery just a few months prior in January, I did feel quite sore after a couple of hours of cheerleading my work while standing. The physical demands of these events are something to consider when preparing.
Here you can see me, standing next to my work on the opening day. During the fair, I spoke with many visitors and shared the various background stories about how these works were created as well as many of the details featured. I am happy to report that 3 of these original pieces were sold during the fair and have now found their forever homes. With one piece going to Sweden, one piece to the UK, and one piece going to a stay in a Hong Kong building that is featured in the actual artwork itself!
Regarding self-promotion, I'm never quite sure of the best approach. A part of me feels that the art should speak for itself. Much like music, everyone has different tastes and preferences when it comes to art. There is no one piece or artist that will appeal to everyone universally. Just as we are each attracted to different songs and musical performers at different times, the same is true for visual art. Sometimes a particular subject matter, color palette, or mood of an artwork will visually resonate with a viewer in a meaningful way. My goal is to create pieces that have the potential to connect with people on an emotional or experiential level directly, rather than trying to force a specific promotional strategy or sales pitch from the sidelines. I believe allowing the art to shine and speak for itself is often the most authentic and effective approach. If someone has been looking at my work for some time, and especially if they lean in to see the information label, then I feel it’s a good moment to introduce myself and offer assistance if the viewer wants it. Sometimes people welcome hearing from the artists themselves.
It was my pleasure to present my customers with 'Certificates of Authenticity' that I prepared to accompany any artwork sales. These certificates state the artwork details, the year of creation, size, etc, and are all signed and stamped by myself. This is to prove that these are indeed true one-of-a-kind original artwork. While I retain all copyright control of my artworks and can make art prints of my work if I so wish, I will never be able to replace the actual first true original, which I must admit is sometimes hard to see go. However, now that I have met my customers in person, and know where each artwork is going, I feel honored and touched that someone values and appreciates my work. .
Overall, my second experience at the Hong Kong Affordable Art Fair was a positive one, with both challenges and opportunities. If invited back, I would relish the chance to refine my booth placement and presence to better engage with attendees. And I will continue to focus on creating Hong Kong-inspired artwork that speaks from the heart, trusting that the right connections will be made between my work and the viewers who appreciate it. Thank you, my dear customers and fellow visitors and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.
Footnote:
I am delighted to report that a week after the fair I had another directly related sale of my artwork titled ‘Harbour Sunset’ which was bought as a present by a husband for his wife’s birthday. Good man!
Also, you may be interested to know that all of the artwork displayed during the fair is available as both high-quality art prints and also as original artwork (if available). Contact me for details.
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