Hugo Barclay is our UK Fair Director, leading an expert team in the execution of three Affordable Art Fairs in London each year. He joined the Affordable Art Fair in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge on programming, the international gallery eco system.
We can’t wait to hear more from Hugo on what to expect at an Affordable Art Fair in Battersea or Hampstead.
Hugo’s previous experience includes managing the gallery programme at London Art Fair, plus previous roles at Artsy and running art advisory services. Hugo has an expansive knowledge on the international art world and understanding of the gallery ecosystem at all levels. He is particularly passionate about nurturing emerging artists, and the galleries supporting them.
Over to Hugo!
What programming do you most look forward to at an Affordable Art Fair in London?
At each of our London fairs you’ll find an exciting and varied programme, including special exhibitions and one-of-a-kind installations and takeovers. Our annual Recent Graduates exhibition at the autumn edition offers the chance to discover and snap up work by some of the brightest talent emerging from UK art schools that year, and is always a pleasure to put tother.
We also work with a different charity at each fair, supporting a range of important causes that celebrate the power of art to do good. There’s really something for everyone – from Late evenings with drinks and DJs, to Family hour on the weekend with arty activities for little ones!
“Our expert team is working diligently to deliver three unique fairs a year, bring fresh gallery programmes and build on its two decades of heritage here in London. “
What are four top tips you’d give to anyone wanting to visit an art fair in London?
Use our resources. With over 100 galleries and 1,000s of artists, it pays to do a bit of prior research before coming along! I’d recommend signing up to our newsletter or following us on Instagram as that way you’ll stay in the know about exciting artists to watch, our line-up of top exhibiting galleries and artistic programme, and top finds on a budget.
Ask the experts. You’ll never find a gallerist that doesn’t want to share the stories of their artists, so don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. From the medium and materials, to the artist’s inspiration and their journey into art – the more informed a purchase you make, the more treasured. And you’ll be able to impress your house guests!
Know when to visit. If you love the buzz, then the Lates or the weekend is for you. But if you prefer your art at a quieter pace, head for the weekday afternoons, where you’ll be able to take it all in without the hustle and bustle.
Pics, or it didn’t happen! If you are at all indecisive, make sure to take a picture / note down the artworks you like and the name of the artist and gallery. You’d be amazed how many people don’t do this, and are disappointed when they can’t find the artwork they wanted to purchase at a later date.
If you’d like to find out more about an Affordable Art Fair Battersea or Hampstead Heath, hit the links to discover all the details, grab tickets and sign up for updates.