Brisbane Exhibitor Guide

In this Exhibitor Guide, we’ll highlight the unique advantages that await gallerists who choose to participate in Affordable Art Fair Brisbane, where lies unique scope to expand your client networks, build valuable connections and enjoy the perks of presenting within a growing market.

Get to know Brisbane and why we’ve chosen to venture into the heart of art in Queensland.

Why Brisbane?

Over the past twelve months, we’ve seen huge demand for an Affordable Art Fair in Brisbane. Art buyers in the city have been knocking down our social media doors, showing a real appetite for a large-scale art event to satisfy the wider area, from Noosa to Gold Coast. A growing population, keenness for upsizing homes and a cultural shift of priorities towards a more relaxed lifestyle make us confident that now is the right time to launch a boutique-feel fair in Brisbane.

Perhaps the most significant reason to consider exhibiting with us at Affordable Art Fair Brisbane is that we will be the only art fair. This is an enormous opportunity to develop and prosper, not just as an individual gallery, but with the entire local art market. It’s an exciting time for Brisbane. The city, and wider region, is in a phase of growth, with the Olympics approaching and an art scene overflowing with talent. Queensland draws in artists from all around Australia, meaning there is incredible diversity in style, medium and approach. This only serves to further suit our plans for a fun, welcoming and accessible edition, appealing to Brisbane local’s comfortability and trust in their own tastes.

We admire the city’s dedication to championing its existing art scene, which aligns with the Affordable Art Fair ethos of wanting to nurture local art ecosystems, as well as bringing art into the homes of visitors. With our Regional Managing Director, Stephanie Kelly, having lived in Brisbane, and the wider team having spent a great deal of time there, we know Brisbane and its gallery culture extremely well. The Australian team are experienced and dedicated, having organised successful editions in both Sydney and Melbourne. We have also welcomed Brisbane local, Nikki Berriman, as our Fair Manager. She’s got big plans for Affordable Art Fair Brisbane!

First impressions of the fair

The fair will take place at Brisbane Showgrounds Exhibition Building, a much-loved venue within the city. Home of the Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association (RNA), we’ll be transforming the space from its farming roots into an impressive art experience. It’s a large space with a cool vibe and flexibility for us to create a stand out art event.

Both gallerists and visitors will benefit from close proximity to the famed King Street restaurants, as well the luxury precincts of Fortitude Valley and James Street. Located in Bowen Hills at the center of the city, the Showgrounds are easily accessible via public transport and we’ll have ample parking to cater for visitors. We’re bringing art right to their doorstep, showcasing the best in the city, the state and Australia, whilst cultivating a local feel that is key to a successful first Brisbane edition. 

Who are our audience?

Brisbane boasts an engaged art audience. The local community has a deep appreciation for creativity and actively seeks out opportunities to engage with various art forms. Whether it’s through attending immersive exhibitions, exploring open-air art installations, or participating in artist residencies, Brisbane’s art audience embraces the chance to connect with artists and experience the creative process first hand.

Different from other Affordable Art Fairs, we’ll be targeting the drive market, hoping to bring together visitors from the entirety of the East Coast, not just the 2.5m residents in Brisbane itself. This far geographical reach means tapping into wealth from the nation’s retirees, young families and affluent professionals.

Australia is known for its strong aesthetic, and it goes without saying that Aussies love Aussie art. Although taste is varied, they’re loyal to their Australian artists. People in Brisbane are very house proud, with much larger spaces to fill than those in Europe. They like to entertain at home, which means your statement pieces and talking point artworks will be ideal for this market, especially those towards the more affordable end of our $100 to $10,000 price range. They want their houses to be unique, and art is a great way to achieve this.

Regional Managing Director, Stephanie Kelly’s, top tips for success in Brisbane: 

Bring a varied selection. Queenslander houses are big, with big spaces and big walls. But, it’s also key to remember to bring a variety of sizes and price ranges.

Engage with pre-fair comms and marketing. Put a plan in place and follow it, including high-quality videos and images. Share plenty of information and materials with us on time, so we can best promote your activity.

Visitors are far more inclined to enter your stand if you are warm and inviting with your body language. Keep your stand dynamic, be welcoming, and try not to sit down behind a table. 

Main image: Exhibitors at Affordable Art Fair Melbourne 2023 enjoying a glass of bubbles.