For many people, stepping into an art gallery or festival can be intimidating.
They seem exclusive or overwhelming, and the process of buying original artwork feels inaccessible to anyone who isn’t already a collector.
The Other Art Fair organizers are proving otherwise. Presented by Saatchi Art, the international fair will make its Phoenix debut Thursday, Nov. 12, to Sunday, Nov. 15, at On Jackson in Downtown Phoenix’s Warehouse District, bringing together 65 local and international emerging and mid-career artists for a four-day event designed to connect creators directly with the public.
The Other Art Fair is 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12 (opening night); 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13 (“Friday Late”), 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15.
The fair combines a traditional art fair feel with live music, interactive installations and family-friendly activities, bringing together 65 local and international emerging and mid-career artists to share their work with collectors. The first 500 guests to arrive on opening night receive a free drink at the Fair Bar, and local DJs will spin throughout the evening.
“At The Other Art Fair, we work very hard to create an atmosphere that is inclusive, welcoming and approachable,” said Nicole Garton, global fair director. “For visitors, we keep our ticket prices under $30 and require that all artworks have their prices visible directly on the wall. We encourage visitors to buy what they love.”
Video provided by Phoenix artist Annie German.
Phoenix is a ‘world-class city’
Holding events throughout the United States and the United Kingdom, The Other Art Fair is a natural fit for Phoenix, according to Garton.
“Phoenix is an exciting, world-class city that is home to major leaders of industry and a thriving creative economy,” Garton said. “Thanks to its rich artistic traditions, deeply rooted cultural identities, and vibrant arts community, Phoenix presents a perfect opportunity to celebrate local artists, as well as an attractive destination for top emerging talent from around the world to gather.”
The organization’s mission has remained since its founding.
“The Other Art Fair was founded in London in 2011 with a mission to create opportunities for emerging artists to showcase and sell their artworks directly to the art-loving public who struggled to gain entry past the barriers of the traditional art world,” she said.
Artists apply directly to participate and keep the majority of their sales. Visitors can meet artists, view transparent pricing and purchase works directly from creators.
Artwork from dozens of exhibitors complements attendees, who can participate in a variety of interactive experiences throughout the weekend.
Visitors can contribute to a giant color-in mural by illustrator John Paine, receive live typewritten poetry from The Haikuists, explore The Karmacy installation, sit for custom portraits at The Faux-To Booth and browse curated collections organized by price point.
“The Other Art Fair offers an elevated art fair environment for artists to showcase and sell their artwork, alongside a robust program of features,” Garton said.
She said organizers strive to create an atmosphere that feels welcoming whether someone has been collecting art for years or is considering purchasing an original work for the first time.
“We highlight original artworks that are under $150, under $500 and under $2000 at the fair with specially curated end cap exhibitions,” Garton said. “For those seeking more affordable options, we always encourage our exhibiting artists to bring limited edition prints for sale.”
A hometown debut
Phoenix artist Annie German is excited to participate in the inaugural fair, as it offers an opportunity to participate in an event she has admired for years.
“I was first drawn to The Other Art Fair after seeing artists I follow on Instagram participate over the years, as well as hearing about their experiences from artists I’ve met through an artist residency,” German said.
“I had always been interested in applying, and when I heard the fair was coming to Phoenix for the first time, it felt like a sign to finally take the leap.”
Selected from a field of more than 300 applicants, the artists exhibiting at the Phoenix event represent a mix of local, national and international talent.
German said she is especially eager to present several larger works.
“I’m most excited to share my few larger works and see how they transform the booth as a whole,” she said. “These paintings allow me to explore scale, movement, and the interplay of light and color more fully, creating a more immersive experience.”
Building connections through art
While artwork will fill the fair’s booths and walls, organizers and artists alike say the event’s true value lies in creating opportunities for connection.
Visitors can speak directly with artists about their inspirations, techniques and creative journeys, a level of interaction not always possible in traditional gallery settings.
For German, those conversations are among the most meaningful aspects of exhibiting.
“I hope my artwork evokes a sense of an emotional world, allowing viewers to connect with the work in their own personal way,” she said. “I hope it sparks a sense of wonder and curiosity about our inner worlds, as well as other worlds and realms beyond our understanding.”
As Phoenix continues to expand its reputation as a cultural destination, Garton believes the city is ready for an event that invites both artists and audiences into the same conversation.
But for German, the significance is even more personal.
“It feels incredibly meaningful to exhibit at The Other Art Fair, and even more so that my first art fair is taking place in Phoenix, my hometown,” she said. “There is such a vibrant creative community here, and events like this create opportunities for artists to connect, bring the community together, and foster a greater appreciation for the arts locally.”
