SXSW Recap: Art Experience Pop-up

With SXSW taking place in our new home city of Austin, Texas, Fair Director Cori Teague gives us a run-down of all the action, including our Art Experience Pop-Up at Vaughan Gallery, which gave Austin art-lovers a sneak peek of what to expect at the inaugural Affordable Art Fair Austin (May 16-19 at the Palmer Center).

Cori Teague, Fair Director, Affordable Art Fair Austin

Austin truly shines during SXSW, and this year, anticipation for the launch of Affordable Art Fair Austin added an extra layer of excitement. Our team seized the opportunity to host a gallery event during the festival, offering a sneak peek of what’s to come at the fair and educating the community on the impact of art fairs.

Set against the backdrop of the exquisite Vaughn Gallery, we curated a showcase featuring local gallery artists – check out some of images below. As we mingled with our new Austin friends, sipping wine and enjoying beautiful music, the event not only enlightened Austinites about the Affordable Art Fair ethos but also heightened our team’s anticipation for the main event in May.

We invited a sommelier to join us for the event, who paired wine with artworks curated in the space. The ‘Art Experience’ included works from Davis Gallery, Unchained.Art, Flatbed Press, Canopy Collective, Art from The Streets, Lydia Street Gallery, Dimmit Contemporary Art, She Wolf Gallery, and Modern Rocks Gallery. To get to know even more galleries who will be exhibiting at Affordable Art Fair Austin (May 16-19 at the Palmer Center), check out our full gallery listing.

SXSW transforms Austin into a vibrant hub of pop-ups, music, innovation, and endless opportunities for unique experiences across the city. Exploring the lively atmosphere, our team was particularly captivated by the takeovers on Rainey Street. The Sharpie takeover at Icenhauers was a standout, with the entire house adorned in intricate decorations, leaving no detail overlooked.

Live music is an integral part of the SXSW experience, and I was fortunate to witness some unforgettable performances. From the album drop and pop-up show of local legends Shane Smith and The Saints, to soaking in the sounds of Bro’s Fresh, featured on this month’s cover of Tribeza, and indulging in some childhood nostalgia with Fall Out Boy at the Moody Center, the festival offered a diverse array of musical delights.

After two exhilarating weeks of networking, expanding our musical horizons, and discussing all things Affordable Art Fair, we sought a moment of tranquility to reflect. Nido on the 8th floor of The Loren Hotel provided the perfect retreat, offering unparalleled views as the city gradually slowed down after the excitement of the festival.

We’re deeply grateful for the vibrant spirit of Austin and can’t wait to share more unforgettable experiences with everyone at Affordable Art Fair Austin from May 16-19 at the Palmer Center – book your tickets today!

Photo credits: Chris Allen, @chrisallenphoto