I’ve always had a love of art.
Not just a visually-pleasing kind of love, but a really deep I-want-to-discover-the-little-window-into-the-artist’s-soul kind of true love. I believe that artwork affords the viewer a glimpse into how another sees the world we share. As a collector, an artwork may represent not only a personal aesthetic, but also reflect shared beliefs beyond the physical canvas.
The icing on my arty cake is being married to an art dealer. I’m very happy being his ‘plus one’ attending dozens of gallery openings and art exhibitions throughout the year. And the cherry on top is having a broad appreciation for not only the style or period or subject matter, but also the materials used, their application and the meaning behind it all.
That is also why Sydney’s only biennial international art fair – Sydney Contemporary – is one of my favourite events on the art calendar. And also why I couldn’t help myself and attended this year’s event twice on the weekend.
The halls of Carriageworks were abuzz with visitors enjoying the visual feast on display. Work in background by Ben Quilty represented by Jan Murphy Gallery, Brisbane.
Held at Sydney’s striking arts precinct Carriageworks in Eveleigh for it’s second anniversary, Sydney Contemporary showcased artworks from a record-breaking 90+ galleries from Australia, New Zealand, Asia, America and South America. You can’t help but be drawn into the impressive collection of painting, sculpture, performance art, printmaking and video works all on display under one roof!
Browsers and serious collectors amass; Sydney Contemporary drew thousands of art lovers and discoverers from all over.
From part-time art enthusiasts to cashed-up collectors, and casual admirers to weekend visitors who meandered the infinite maze of stands, there really was something for everyone.
Rosie Deacon’s ‘Kanga Kave’ installation
Whilst the artwork provided the visual feast, pop-up restaurants by the likes of Longrain’s Subcontinental, Mary’s Burgers, Bloodwood and Gelato Messina, and the occasional sip of Petaluma Chardonnay provided the all important taste feast to keep our energy levels up!
Future Perfect, Singapore
Future Perfect, Singapore
As I wandered the halls for hours in search of my next coveted investment, I was constantly met with a sea of red ‘sold’ dots, making me both anxious that I might miss out on my prize, yet thrilled that Sydney’s interest in art is alive and well.
Sullivan and Strumpf, Sydney
I love to discover trends in international art . . .
Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran represented by Gallery 9
To entertain the possibility of buying something for my home or recommending pieces to others . . .
Annandale Galleries, Sydney
To chat with artists and gallery owners about their works on display . . .
Brendan Huntley represented by Tolarno Galleries, Melbourne
To learn about new artists for the first time whose works are about an inestimable number of things . . .
Arc One Gallery, Melbourne
And to visit some favourites . . .
Miranda Skoczek represented by Edwina Corlette Gallery, Brisbane
Sydney Contemporary mustered up a ‘Disneyland-meets-Easter-Show’ vibe this year that left us feeling like big kids in a big candy store!
Whether it be landscape, nature, politics, the fascinating use of materials or something all together other-worldly, I love to seek out the challenging works as much as the beautiful ones, and picture them in my future living room in my future house that has endless wall space . . .
As is often the case, I fell in love with far too many pieces at Sydney Contemporary to choose just one!
Alex’s daughter Anouk sizing up the Gregor Kregar bronze gnome sculpture at Michael Reid Art.
All images via © Alexandra Kidd Design