Labor Day plans just got significantly better with the Hamptons Fine Art Fair both online and at the Southampton Art Center.
Beauford Delaney, “Untitled Abstract” (1959, gouache and watercolor on paper), 25 inches by 18 inches
This year makes history for more reasons than one. The first-ever virtual and in-person Hamptons Fine Art Fair will host a four-day exhibition at Southampton Arts Center, featuring over 70 national and international galleries that specialize in important 20th and 21st century art. Establishing itself as the only fine art fair on museum grounds in the nation, its 50-gallery setup in person will attract enthusiasts near and far to appreciate art in the culturally abundant village of Southampton. Former producer of ArtHamptons and executive director of the fair Rick Friedman will showcase the finest works by 400 renowned artists and over 1,000 pieces of high-caliber art.
Conn Ryder, “No More Funny Business” (2021, acrylic on canvas), 56 inches by 54 inches
“Hamptons Fine Art Fair is a fun celebration of the East End’s new booming art scene as well as a timely tribute to our region’s rich history as a haven for the creation and patronage of art,” says Friedman. “The recent tidal wave of art galleries and auction houses to hit our beach resort makes the Hamptons the hottest new art mecca in the country.”
Carl Holty, “Collage #384” (1958, gouache collage on paper), 12 1/2 inches by 9 inches
The fair presents a range of significant artists, including accomplished Black artists, respected emerging artists, blue-ship masters, an M.C. Escher display and the rediscovery of second-generation abstract expressionists. All artists will be prominently displayed throughout the interior and exterior of the Southampton Arts Center building, as well as the De Kooning Pavilion, the Pollock Pavilion and the VIP lounge. Impressive works in the Sculpture Park include pieces by Louise Bourgeois, Larry Rivers, David Salle, Bill King, Henry Taylor, Hans Van de Bovenkamp, Joel Pearlman, Audrey Flack, Chakaia Booker and other globally recognized artists.
Harry Bertschmann, “Subway Series, No. 36” (1980s, acrylic on canvas), 57.5 inches by 49 inches
For those who can’t attend or wish to relive the fair, HFAF will be using artPRESENT, a platform that allows galleries to virtually share their physical displays. Aimed at crafting the most authentic virtual reality experience, over 70 galleries will be online to showcase their displayed artworks in 2D thumbnails as well as 3D virtual reality.
Audrey Flack, “Passages” (1951, gouache on paper), 23 3/4 inches by 18 1/2 inches
This futuristic feature will make the Hamptons Fine Art Fair the first to ever present the galleries and artworks both in-person as well as virtual reality.
Alex Katz, “Vivien with Hat” (2021, archival pigment inks), 36 inches by 48 inches
“As the only international art fair in the country staged in an art museum setting, entering the historic building of the Southampton Arts Center will be an exhilarating experience,” says Friedman. “Guests can roam the grounds, meet 50 respected galleries and walk on a replica of the Jackson Pollock paint-stained barn floor. There will be great amenities such as an open wine bar and delicious lunch and dinner options. All in all, it’s a thrilling art buying experience.” Virtual fair Aug. 15-Nov. 30, in-person fair Sept. 2-6, Southampton Arts Center, 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton
Moe Brooker, “Personally Joyful” (2017, mixed media on canvas), 48 inches by 60 inches
Photography by: PHOTOS COURTESY OF HAMPTONS FINE ART FAIR GALLERISTS
