The Global Art Calendar: A Closer Look at the Major Art Fairs Around the World and their Impact on the Art Market
Art fairs unfold throughout the year, each event adding a unique chapter to the global art narrative. They provide a vital platform for emerging artists to showcase their work and gain exposure on an international scale. This exposure can significantly impact an artist's career trajectory, influencing their market value and opening doors to new opportunities.
Art fairs, by bringing together artworks and potential buyers, contribute to the current market trends. Prices can fluctuate based on the buzz generated at these events, with highly sought-after pieces often commanding a premium. The visibility gained at art fairs can lead to increased demand, ultimately impacting the valuation of artworks.
The strength of the art market can be evaluated by examining the sales and transactions during art fairs and also art auctions. If the year witnessed robust sales, high-profile acquisitions, and a diverse range of artworks commanding significant prices, it suggests a resilient and thriving market.
Emerging Trends
Recent art fairs have shown an emerging trend on digital and immersive artworks fusing together traditional mediums with technology; socially engaged art, focusing on topics such as climate change, social injustice and human rights; historical art and antiques with rich historical context and classical forms; and art focused on cultural diversity and dialogue.
A Glimpse into the Calendar of Major World Art Fairs
Keep in mind, there are many art fairs held worldwide showcasing artists and their artworks. The art world is dynamic, and events may evolve or change over time. New art fairs may emerge, and existing ones may alter their focus or locations. Several major art fairs throughout the year:
February
Frieze Los Angeles: Los Angeles, California, USA
Frieze Los Angeles was launched in 2019; it focuses primarily on contemporary artworks and showcases the vibrant and culturally diverse Los Angeles art scene. It’s typically held in February/March.
March
Art Dubai: Dubai, UAE
Art Dubai was launched in 2007 and has grown to become a significant international art fair in the Middle East. It is typically held in March and specializes in contemporary art, with an emphasis on artists from the Middle East and South Asia.
TEFAF Maastricht: Maastricht, Netherlands
The European Fine Art Fair (TEFAF) was founded in 1988 in Maastricht, Netherlands and is typically held in March. It is renowned for its emphasis on museum-quality art and antiques spanning a wide range of periods and styles. It expanded to New York in 2012.
TEFAF Maastricht New York | Global Art Community | TEFAF
Art Basel Hong Kong: Hong Kong, China
Art Basel Hong Kong was launched in 2013 and is facilitated by the same company as the original Art Basel established in 1970 in Basel, Switzerland. Art Basel Hong Kong focuses on modern and contemporary art, presenting works from leading galleries around the world. It is renowned for its high-quality selection, attracting top collectors, galleries, and artists. Art Basel Hong Kong is typically held around the end of March.
Art Basel in Hong Kong | Art Basel
May
Frieze New York: New York City, USA
Frieze New York was first launched in 2012 and is a part of the London Frieze Art Fair, which first took place in London in 2003. It specializes in contemporary art and is known for its innovative programming, including special projects and talks, alongside the main gallery exhibitions. Frieze New York is typically held in May.
TEFAF New York: New York City, USA
TEFAF (The European Fine Art Fair) New York was founded in early 2016 and focuses on Modern and Contemporary Art and Design. It is typically held in May.
TEFAF New York Art Fair | TEFAF
June
Art Basel: Basel, Switzerland
Art Basel Switzerland was established in 1970 and may be the most well-known of the art fairs, and since its start has expanded to Hong Kong, Miami, and Paris. The fair focuses on contemporary art and on introducing new and emerging artists to the world. This fair is typically held in June.
Art Basel in Basel | Art Basel
September
The Armory Show: New York City, USA
The Armory Show was established in 1994 and features both modern and contemporary art, showcasing a mix of established and emerging artists. It is typically held in September.
The Armory Show | New York's Art Fair
October
Frieze London: London, UK
Frieze London was founded in 2003 and focuses only on contemporary art and living artists. The fair is typically held in October.
Art Taipei: Taipei City, Taiwan
Art Taipei began in 1992 and is one of the oldest contemporary art fairs in Asia. The fair highlights both established and emerging artists with an emphasis on Asian artists. It’s typically held in October.
ART TAINAN | MARCH 15-17, 2024 (art-taipei.com)
Art Basel Paris+: Paris, France
Art Basel Paris+ was launched in 2022 and focuses on high-quality modern and contemporary artworks with a large presence of French galleries.
Paris+ par Art Basel | Paris+ par Art Basel
December
Art Basel Miami Beach: Miami Beach, Florida, USA
Art Basel Miami may be one of the most talked about of the international art fairs, as it usually draws famous and influential guests. It is typically held in December and is the last of the major fairs of the year. It was first started in 2002 and focuses primarily on contemporary art and featuring both established and up and coming galleries from around the world.
