Having built its reputation on showcasing exceptional contemporary art from New Zealand, Australia, Asia and beyond, the Aotearoa Art Fair is once again poised to deliver a captivating line-up in its 2024 edition, taking place from the 18th until the 21st of April in Auckland. In an exciting change, this year’s fair will be hosted in the iconic Viaduct Events Centre, which will be transformed into a bustling cultural hub to offer a fresh perspective on artistic exchange and expression.
This year’s fair also signals the start of a new era under the ownership of the organisers behind Australia’s leading art fair, Sydney Contemporary as well as other major international arts fairs including Art Central Hong Kong, Taipei Dangdai, India Art Fair, PHOTOFAIRS Shanghai, ART SG and Tokyo Gendai. Considering their international expertise and extensive network, it is a transition that promises to elevate the Aotearoa Art Fair to new heights and foster deeper and more meaningful connections within the Asia Pacific art community.
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“We are excited to officially be part of Aotearoa New Zealand’s vibrant and dynamic art scene,” says Co-Owner Tim Etchells. “We see this as a natural evolution focused on building a broader base of art communities and art exchange in the Asia Pacific region and strengthening the relationship between our member fairs. Our deep understanding of the region, of each local market and experience in organising world-class arts events will provide unique opportunities for the New Zealand visual arts community to grow and prosper.”
With a focus on strengthening relationships between New Zealand’s offering and other fairs around the region, as well as an impetus to nurture local talent, it is clear that this year’s Fair is in the best position to support the growth and prosperity of our local visual arts community — which is as exciting a prospect for the artists and gallerists involved as it is for any collectors waiting in the wings.
As far as what to expect from the line-up this year, the programme has been thoughtfully curated to cater to both collectors and art enthusiasts alike. Expected to draw over 10,000 local and international visitors, the Aotearoa Art Fair 2024 will showcase the finest contemporary art from New Zealand and beyond, ranging from established names to emerging talents and offering a comprehensive picture of both current trends and innovative expressions. And while the specific gallery line-up is yet to be announced, Etchells assures us that this year’s Fair is shaping up as one of the best yet. “We are already working plans with the team to deliver a fair that showcases the very best contemporary art from Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the wider Pacific Rim,” he says.
In addition to its gallery presentations, the Fair will also offer a diverse range of activities, including tours, artist talks, panel discussions, live performances, an outdoor sculpture park, an art bookshop, and a variety of dining options.
Running since 2011, The Aotearoa Art Fair is New Zealand’s biggest contemporary art event with an undeniable cultural and economic impact on New Zealand’s visual arts sector. In 2023, for instance, the galleries sold more than $4 million of art, with all proceeds benefiting the artists and their galleries, and this year is shaping up to be just as significant.
With tickets on sale now, anticipation is building for what promises to be a transformative and dynamic cultural event that should be down in everyone’s calendars. From its new venue to its new owners bringing a fresh vision to the table, the Aotearoa Art Fair 2024 is poised to redefine our local art scene, foster international connections and celebrate the boundless artistic talent we have access to both in New Zealand and from around our region. And whether you’re a bona fide art aficionado, a collector, or someone who simply wants to learn more, this is one event you don’t want to miss.
