THE 12th annual Aberdeen Art Fair (AAF) will showcase a stunning array of artwork including pieces inspired by the beauty of Africa when the three-day event gets underway this weekend.
Taking place from yesterday, at the city’s Music Hall, more than 1 000 contemporary artworks will be on show from hundreds of creatives, with individual stands hosted by galleries and professional artists alike from across the United Kingdom.
Among them is Umlungu, a Zimbabwe-born abstract expressionist artist, living and creating in the East Neuk of Fife.
Inspired by the beauty of Africa and Scotland, music, and the sea, colour is a very powerful and prominent feature of his work.
Umlungu’s bold and vibrant work hangs in homes across the world, including throughout Scotland, England, Wales, Belgium, Finland, France, Switzerland, Puerto Rico, Australia, South Africa, the Caribbean and the United States.
Umlungu was the endearing nickname given to him during his many years working in South Africa.
He said: “My first Aberdeen Art Fair is a fantastic opportunity to reach out and show my art to a new audience. I cannot wait to welcome everyone to my stand at the Music Hall in magical Aberdeen.”
Over the past 12 years, AAF has carved out a niche by offering a curated selection of contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.
- Umlungu takes Africa’s beauty to Aberdeen Art Fair
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The fair’s commitment to affordability and collaboration with art galleries across Scotland has made it a popular destination for art enthusiasts.
Gerry Muldoon, director for the AAF, emphasises the fair’s unique appeal: “While we may not have the scale of London or Manchester, our boutique approach creates a more intimate and welcoming atmosphere. It’s this relaxed vibe, fostered by our exhibitors and visitors, that sets us apart.”
To further enhance the local community, the AAF is introducing free admission.
This initiative aims to contribute to the regeneration of Union Street by attracting around 4 000 to 5 000 visitors over the weekend.
These visitors are expected to support local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
From affordable prints to high-end sculptures, AAF offers a wide range of artwork to suit every taste and budget.
Prices start at £50 (US$66) and can exceed £25 000 (US$33 000), ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Explore the works of renowned artists like Peter Goodfellow, Gordon Bryce RSA RSW, Helen M Turner PAI GSWA, Lennox Dunbar RSA, Emma S Davis, Frances Walker CBE RSA RSW and many more.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to discover emerging talent and unique pieces from across Scotland.
The Preview Evening took place last night.
The fair will take place today and tomorrow, where entry is free all weekend.
At last night’s preview evening, there was complimentary wine tasting, music, complimentary caricatures with Neil G Smith and excellent bar and café facilities.
It’s also a great opportunity over the weekend to meet many of the artists up close and personal and find out what lies behind their creations.
And what’s more, entry to the launch night is also completely free, although donations are welcome.
The donations go towards ensuring that the AAF continues to be the North East’s most popular contemporary art event.
The line-up includes a wealth of local and national exhibitors.
Among those representing Aberdeenshire will be Peacock Visual Arts, the Aberdeen Artists Society and Jane Birrell MacKenzie, alongside award-winning Glaswegian artist David Gilliver, Fife-based John Kelly and Umulungu, Norfolk’s A Heart Of Glass Gallery and East Kilbride-based artist Neil G Smith amongst many more from across the UK.
Muldoon, who is also the director for GM Events Ltd, an Aberdeen-based event management company said: “We are proud that this established event continues to bring extraordinary creative work from a wonderful range of galleries and artists including the next generation of talent from across the country.
“And unlike many art fairs, the north-east public don’t have to pay expensive admission fees to see it, with free entry all weekend.” — Yahoo News
