Tips from My Experiences as a Visitor, an Exhibitor and Behind-the-Scenes Insider
Attending an art fair is one of the most exciting experiences for any art lover, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes into the art world. With so much to see (and do), it can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry “I gotchu!”
Based on my experiences as a visitor, exhibitor, and working behind the scenes, I’ve learned a thing or two about navigating these vibrant events confidently and easily, so here is an art fair guide with my top tips on how to prepare for an art fair.
1. Do Your Research Before You Go
Before you head to the fair, take a few minutes to look up the galleries and artists exhibiting, making a note of their location, booth numbers, and any of the specially curated workshops and events you might like to attend. Nowadays, all fairs have websites or apps that list exhibitors and scheduled events so that visitors can maneuver through the fair with ease without missing your must-visit booths.
The best-prepared visitors are always the ones who know what they are looking for because they make the most of their time and enjoy the experience. Whether you are curious about art fair trends, going for art fair networking (see tip 8), or looking for emerging artists at art fairs, consider a goal for your visit.
Bonus tip: Download the event map in advance and highlight the galleries, artists, and event locations you don’t want to miss!
2. Comfort Is Key: Dress for the Occasion
First things first: wear comfortable shoes! Trust me, this one’s a must. Art fairs always involve a lot of walking so you’ll get your steps in and you’ll be on your feet for hours. I’ve seen it all—from stylishly inappropriate sneakers to aching feet in heels. Stick with something like flats or comfy sneakers that’ll keep you going all day long. I also recommend wearing layers since venues can get chilly or stuffy depending on the crowd and location - depending on how long you’re there, you may find yourself adding and removing layers regularly.
Bonus tip: Bring a crossbody bag or small backpack. It frees up your hands for all the brochures, business cards, and (hopefully!) some amazing art purchases.
3. Pace Yourself: It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
I’ve seen it countless times—people start strong, zipping from booth to booth, and by hour two, they’re exhausted. Art fairs can be overwhelming with so much to take in, so pace yourself! Sporting your comfortable shoes, take your time to appreciate the works, chat with gallery reps, and make sure you take breaks. Grab a coffee, people-watch, or sit and soak in the atmosphere. Taking it slow will make the experience way more enjoyable, and remember that most fairs span two or more days, so you can always return later.
Bonus tip: Take photos (with permission!) of pieces you love so you can come back to them later. It’s easy to get distracted by the next booth, so photos help you remember what stood out.
4. Engage with Galleries and Artists
One of the most fun parts of art fairs is talking to the galleries and artists behind the work. As someone who’s exhibited at many fairs, I can tell you—we love engaging with visitors. Don’t be shy! Ask about the artist’s inspiration, the process behind the pieces, or the story of the gallery. Not only do you learn more about the art, but you also build relationships that might come in handy later.
Great questions to ask:
“What inspired this piece?”
“Can you tell me more about the artist’s background?”
“What techniques were used in this artwork?”
Bonus tip: Sign up for mailing lists. If you show genuine interest, galleries often share insider tips about upcoming shows, learn about upcoming art exhibitions and fairs, or new pieces before they hit the public.
5. Bring a Notebook (or Use Your Phone Notes)
With so much incredible art on display, and a wealth of artists and galleries to meet, it’s easy to forget what you loved and why. I’ve learned this the hard way and now I always keep a notebook (or the notes app on my phone) to jot down the names of artists, pieces, or even booths that catch my eye. This is especially helpful when you’re making decisions about what to buy or following up with galleries after the event.
Bonus tip: Collect business cards and brochures—they’re great resources for post-fair follow-ups, and join mailing lists to remain informed about new artists, upcoming shows, or new artwork.
6. Be Open-Minded
Some of the best discoveries at art fairs come when you least expect them. While it’s great to have a list of must-see artists, keep an open mind as you wander. I’ve seen visitors fall in love with an artist or piece they never would have thought of before. Some of my favorite personal discoveries came from booths I hadn’t planned on visiting.
Bonus tip: Don’t skip the smaller or emerging galleries—you might stumble on the next big thing!
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Buy Art
I know that purchasing art can feel intimidating, especially in galleries or at a big fair, but it’s important to remember that this is a personal journey filled with joy and discovery, and so fairs are fantastic places to purchase. There’s usually a wide range of price points—art fairs aren’t just for collectors with deep pockets and you don't necessarily have to seek out affordable art fairs. If you love a piece, don’t hesitate to ask about the price or payment plans. Art is not just an investment; it reflects your tastes and experiences. Don’t be afraid to explore different styles and mediums—what resonates with you is what truly matters.
Bonus tip: Not quite ready to buy? That’s okay! Get all the details and follow up with the gallery later—it’s normal to want to sleep on a big decision.
8. Network and Have Fun
Art fairs are great for more than just discovering art—they’re also perfect for meeting like-minded people. I’ve met some of the most interesting people at these events, so interesting in fact, I can categorically say there would be no 11:Eleven gallery without those relationships! Go ahead and strike up conversations with fellow attendees, attend artist talks or panel discussions, and don’t be afraid to swap contact info with galleries or artists you click with. Networking can lead to future opportunities and deepen your connection to the art world.
Bonus tip: Keep an eye out for special events like VIP previews, artist talks, and guided tours to enrich your experience and network amongst a more intentional crowd.
9. Bring Snacks and Stay Hydrated
Long hours at an art fair can leave you feeling tired, especially if you don’t stay hydrated. From personal experience, I’ve learned the value of carrying a water bottle and some snacks. Many fairs have cafes, but they can get crowded, so it’s handy to have your own to keep your energy up.
Bonus tip: Meet with friends after to debrief and chat about your experiences and favorite pieces!
10. Enjoy the Experience
At the end of the day, art fairs are a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. Regardless of the type of art fairs - contemporary art fairs, international art fairs, sustainable art fairs, or others - and whether you’re buying, browsing, or just soaking in the atmosphere, remember to have fun! Enjoy the conversations, the inspiration, and the beautiful chaos that comes with discovering new art. For me, that’s what makes art fairs so magical.
So, next time you head to an art fair, take a deep breath, wear your comfiest shoes, and dive in with these tips in hand. If you do, I promise you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience—who knows, you might even walk away with a new favorite piece!
We hope this post has provided all you need to successfully navigate the wonderful world of art fairs. Feel free to leave a comment below and in the meantime, click here to access a list of upcoming National and International Art Fairs and maybe you'll find your next must-see art fairs
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