Next week sees the start of possibly the most important few days in London’s art calendar. 12 years on and the visitor numbers at Frieze Art Fair have quadrupled and it is now regarded as one of the key fairs in the world. However the overly conceptual work and, let’s face it, absolutely ridiculous prices mean that it often alienates anyone who doesn’t already own several properties around the globe and a luxury yacht. Luckily recent years have seen the emergence of smaller fairs which showcase the true breadth of the art scene across the UK and many galleries capitalise on the influx of visitors into London by staging highly anticipated exhibitions. Here are some of our favourites and the best thing is almost all are absolutely free.
What: Little White Lies and 3rd Rail Present: The Great Guillermo Where: 71a Gallery, 71a Leonard St, London, EC2A 4QS When: 15th – 18th October
It’s been almost exactly a year since our last exhibition so we’re extremely excited to announce ‘The Great Guillermo – From Cronos to Crimson Peaks’ in partnership with independent film magazine Little White Lies. On show will be a series of screen prints by some of the most exciting illustration talent all inspired by the films of Guillermo del Toro. The private view (to which you are of course invited) coincides with the release of del Toro’s sumptuous gothic horror Crimson Peak. To RSVP please click HERE, this is definitely not one to be missed!
What: Multiplied 2015 Where: Christie’s South Kensington, 85 Old Brompton Road, London SW7 3LD When: 16th – 18th October
Now in its 6th edition Multiplied’s unique selling point is its ability to combine everything from YBAs to international artists and recent graduates under one roof all in the name of print with many exhibitors using it as an opportunity to launch new editions. Expect to see a broad range of printmaking techniques as well as book and photography multiples. South London based Slaughterhouse Print Studio who will be exhibiting for the first time as well as Made in Arts London who support and promote emerging talent from UAL.
What: Moniker Art Fair Where: Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane London, E1 6QL When: 15th – 18th October
Partnering up with The Other Art Fair for the third time in a row Moniker never disappoints in delivering a colourful feast of established urban art and illustration talent. Though still fairly firmly rooted in graffiti culture the fair has evolved to encompass people like Otto Schade, a tattoo artist who also makes some incredibly intricate and surreal Victorian inspired etchings. Look out for fair veterans Grafik Gallery and the live screen printing on opening night with standard tickets priced at £8.00.
What: Remi Rough – Home Where: Scream Editions, 27-28 Eastcastle Street, London W1W 8DH When: 8th Oct – 3rd Nov
Home is Roughs first solo show in 6 years and a homage to the city whose walls he has been painting since the 1980’s. He has been able to maintain a presence on the street art scene whilst also successfully transitioning to working within a gallery space thus making his pieces more permanent. The work on show ‘explores the relationship of balance, tension and colour’ in a way that’s as sensitive as it is bold.
What: JR: JR Where: Lazarides, 11 Rathbone Place, London W1T 1HR When: 16th Oct – 12th Nov
Bringing art to the most unlikely places JR’s work spans several continents and disciplines. Known for his large scale pastings often in urban areas facing challenging conditions he is able to capture and bring to the forefront people who are on the fringe. JR: JR showcases his series on the abandoned part of Ellis Island exploring perhaps one of the most compelling immigration stories of the last century. Alongside this is his collaboration with the Opéra de Paris ballet dancers whom he he photographed on the roof of the Paris Opera.
