The fifth annual NewcastleGateshead Art Fair opens tomorrow at spectacular venue of The Sage Gateshead. This year the fair has attracted more galleries than ever before, providing a platform for the work of hundreds of artists represented by around 50 galleries from across the UK and overseas. NewcastleGatehead is the largest commercial art fair in the North-East of England, and provides the opportunity to find affordable art as an investment for the feature. This year the fair features an extensive range of unique paintings, sculpture, ceramics, photographs, prints and glass.
In addition, visitors can enjoy a weekend of musical events, an art and food experience, print demonstrations and live street art, while there will also be expert advise from The Contemporary Art Society on buying and collecting art, a busy seminar programme and activities for children.
One of the highlights of this year’s exhibition will be a display of at least six new paintings by acclaimed British artist Chris Gollon, which were inspired by his second stint as Artist in Residence at St Mary’s College, Durham University, during spring this year. Although usually the London-based artist’s new works are showcased in the capital, it was decided that these paintings should be unveiled in the North-East due their intimate connection with the region.
During his time at Durham, Gollon produced 16 paintings on the theme of love, while also engaging in debate with leading thinkers, taking Q&A sessions with students and experiencing day-to-day college life, such as formal dinners and summer evening balls.
Other highlights of the NewcastleGateshead Art Fair include a show case of work by new artists, which returns for a fourth year and displays the work of 15 unrepresented artists from the North-East, selected by top local curators. Over the weekend, Kathryn Tickell, the foremost exponent of the Northumbrian pipes, brings her new show, Northumbrian Voices, to The Sage, while, US a capella group Straight No Chaser will give a concert as part of its inaugural UK tour.
For connoisseurs of food and drink, the Brasserie at The Sage will host The Collection, an art and food event which pairs taster food and drinks with particular art genres.
NewcastleGateshead Art Fair runs from 30 September 30 to 2 October
Further Information & Tickets: ngartfair.com
