Tokyo International Art Fair 2016 | Omotesando Hills
"Life is beautiful” is a phrase that clearly applies to street artist Thierry Guetta, aka Mr. Brainwash. In just a matter of years, he went from spray-painting alleyways to selling art installations worth thousands. He even collaborated with pop star Madonna.
Life is just as beautiful for painter Dawn Ward, aka Sunrise Welward Art. Last year she traveled to Tokyo from Okinawa for the Tokyo International Art Fair, sold most of her paintings there, and afterward received queries from galleries and potential clients.
Both artists are among the more than 150 showing their work at this year’s fair, which takes place on May 13 and 14. The event aims to showcase both rookie and veteran artists, as well as create chances for networking and buying the art on display.
As the fair runs on two days, it will also be split into private and public viewings. First up is the private, which costs ¥1,500. That provides potential buyers with first pick of the art on offer and includes a serving of Champagne. The public viewing is free, but a lot of people are expected to show up: the inaugural Tokyo International Art Fair last year welcomed more than 6,000 guests.
In addition to New York Art Gallery exhibiting Mr. Brainwash and Sunrise Welward Art, keep an eye out for artists such as Michael Lam, the New York-based artist famous for his single stroke calligraphy, and Shane Bowden, who has been described as “Andy Warhol on steroids.” London-based director James Skeritt will be using this year’s art fair to unveil two new films, “Sleeping” and “What is 9thWaveGallery.” Both pieces feature the works of Japanese, Hawaiian and Irish artists. (Drew Bateman).
Dates & Times:
Friday 13th May 2016 : 18.00pm - 21.00pm
Including Champagne Reception, Private View and first opportunity to buy art.
Saturday 14th May 2016 : 11.00am - 19.00pm
Live painting, Buy Art Show, Global Art Awards Ceremony (18.00pm) FREE ENTRY
Tickets: Available here
Venue: Omotesando Hills, Main Building, B3F SPACE O. 4-12-10 Jingumae,Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001 JAPAN
Website: www.tokyoartfair.com