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There are a few words that come to mind when people think of Brooklyn, of varying kindness and relevance. But something everyone knows about NYC’s coolest borough (my opinion, obviously), is that Brooklyn is renowned for its creativity, diversity, and constant buzz of activity.
That buzz comes through a seemingly endless art scene. So many artists and creators of every type of medium live in Brooklyn, a bustling home of creativity. From pottery and ceramics, to painting and sculpture, writing and poetry, and
Among the various art events and exhibitions that take place in the borough, The 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 made the trek to Brooklyn’s Navy Yard for the chance to see some art. And while I didn’t buy any art pieces this time around (I’ve run out of space in my small one-bedroom apartment), I discovered a handful of artists that I’m definitely keeping on my radar for future purchases big and small.
What is The Other Art Fair?
The Other Art Fair is a dynamic and immersive 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’s an event that intentionally provides a platform for emerging and established artists to present their work directly to a diverse audience of art lovers, collectors, and curators. The key differentiator here is that you’re almost certain to meet the artists while walking 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 of the artists I stumbled on and really liked this past weekend below.
Engage with the Artists: One of the unique aspects of The Other Art Fair is the opportunity to speak directly with the artists. Take advantage of this by engaging in conversations about their inspiration, techniques, and artistic journeys. It creates a more enriching experience and allows you to gain deeper insights into their artwork. Everyone is very approachable!
Explore Diverse Artworks: The fair features a wide range of artistic styles, mediums, and themes. 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 Photographs: With numerous artworks on display, it can be challenging to remember every piece that catches your eye. Consider taking notes or jotting down the names of the artists and the artworks you enjoy the most. This will help you recall and review them later when making purchase decisions. Always ask for taking photos of the artists’ work, though the general philosophy at The Other Art Fair is that photography is allowed and encouraged.
Just wander! The joy of any art show is discovering something new and unexpected. Make sure to carve out time to just wander the gallery space and be open to discovering things you otherwise might not have spotted or planned to spot.
Should You Buy at The Other Art Fair?
The decision to purchase art at The Other Art Fair depends on your personal preferences and readiness to invest. The fair offers a unique advantage in that it provides direct access to the artists themselves. This direct interaction enables you to gain a deeper understanding of their creative process, motivations, and the stories behind their artworks.
If you find a piece that resonates with you and fits within your budget, purchasing artwork at The Other Art Fair can be a rewarding experience. Not only do you get a unique piece of art, but you also support the artists directly, which can be meaningful for everyone involved. Plus: the art comes with a story of how, where, and when you purchased it.
A Few of My Favorite Artist Discoveries at Brooklyn’s Other Art Fair 2023
Borderscapes by Gisela A. Lazarte
Nonamey
Gabriella Anouk’s Hyperrealism
Helga Stentzel
Richard Hoffman’s Subversive Post Office
Katie Southworth
Kevin Cross
Peter Carnegie
Alejandro Aboli’s The RedLine
The Other Art Fair in Brooklyn presents an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of independent artists and their oftentimes personal creations. Art is always inspiring, and the chance to discover new art and new & emerging artists is a great way to spend the day.
When it comes to purchasing art, trust your instincts and consider investing if you find a piece that truly speaks to you. The fair’s accessibility and direct artist engagement make it an excellent platform for discovering and acquiring affordable artworks. So, explore, engage, and let The Other Art Fair be a gateway to Brooklyn’s always exciting art scene.
