LEADING ART FAIRS OF THE WORLD

The love and appreciation for Art has been an intrinsic part of the Human Cultural and Cognitive Evolution. The interest and experience of the human mind in Art has grown exponentially since the Pre-Historic Period. One can say that with the development and growth of Cranial Capacity in the humans along with many other social, cultural, political and economic developments, the importance of Art and Aesthetics have evolved, leading to a number of professional disciplines, like Fine Arts, Art Management, Curators, Critiques, Art Historians and so forth. A lot of precedence is given on analyses and interpretation of art to get a holistic picture of the contemporary societies, many of which cease to exist now and only their art works exist. These above mentioned developments led to an increase of population that was inclined towards understanding and appreciating various forms of Art, from recreational perspective to professional business perspectives. Art and Aesthetics have become such an important part of Cultural Studies and Heritage that various bodies run by the Governments of all countries and states and by the Private Entrepreneurs have started investing stakes to conserve and preserve the Artistic Assemblages of their regions. Over the past decade this practice has increased rapidly due to the commercial and monetary benefits and cases of protecting native traditions in the ever-increasing globalized world. Keeping all these things in mind, here is a small list of Must Visit Destinations Around the World for Art Lovers. Although a word of caution that this article only scratches the surface of the Art World, one lifetime wouldn’t be enough to imbibe and appreciate all the Artistic Marvels of our World. Let us begin with one of the earliest evidences of Art in the world, in the form of Pre-Historic Rock Art. These Cave Shelters can be found in the South of France known as the Chauvet Caves. Based on the archaeological and scientific evidence from the Caves, these paintings are dated to roughly around 32,000 years old. These paintings tell us about the Hunting and Ritualistic activities of the Paleolithic dwellers of these caves. Next fairly ancient site that is a must for art lovers to visit is in Maharashtra, India. There are a group of Buddhist Caves near the village of Ajanta in Aurangabad District of Maharashtra, and due to their proximity to the village they are known as Ajanta Caves. These are group of Buddhist Caves of which the earliest has been dated to around 2nd Century BCE belonging to the Satvahana Dynasty and the latest dating to around 6th Century CE belonging to Gupta-Vakataka Period. A visitor will be enchanted by the perfect blend of interaction between the Nature and its Human inhabitants. Here there are numerous sculptures belonging to the Buddhist Iconography and breathtaking paintings giving us a glimpse of the Ancient Indians. This article would be incomplete without mentioning the splendid city of Istanbul, in Turkey. This city has seen many glorious days under different Empires, like the, Hellenistic Empire, the Bronze Ages, the Byzantine Empire and lastly the Ottoman Empire. The entire city is shrouded with monuments and museums with the robust collections one’s eyes scan fathom. Right from the Sultan Ahmet to the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia to splendid museums like the Top-Kapi Palace, this city is a gold mine for Art lovers. Another must visit destination for Art lovers is Rome, in Italy. The entire city is filled to the brim with history and monuments and churches to devour. There is a lot to see and experience in the city but the must visit sites are Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Basilica (The Vatican City), the Colosseum, Cuatro Fontana Di Trevi and the Pantheon. There are a lot of majestic places to visit in the Latin Americas as well. One of them which deserves a special mention is the capital of Columbia, Bogota. This city is a true treat for the Art lovers, there is so much one can do here, most spectacular places are, Museo del Oro (Gold Museum), the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, the Botero Museum and lastly a Street Art Tour of the City. The final two destinations that deserve mentions are the Metropolitan Museum of Art, in New York and the Louvre, in Paris and recently opened in Abu Dhabi. Both of these museums are very unique in different ways and they are the torch bearers of Art Education in the world. These museums have magnificent art collects from different periods and regions of the world, like the most well-known, Mona Lisa, by Leonardo Da Vinci at Louvre. Along with art collections and exhibitions these museums also carry out extensive research and publications on Art of the World along with educating the future generations on Art Management and Curatorship, Art Conservation and Art History. And to see more works of art from around the world that is authentic check out our website RtistiQ as we bring to you both digital and physical art backed by NFT.

RtistiQ

03 Dec 2021

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In the urban landscape, vibrant forms of artistic expression emerge, challenging conventional notions of art and engaging with communities in unconventional ways. Two distinctive art forms that have garnered attention for their rawness and unfiltered creativity are graffiti art and Art Brut. Some of the most notorious names of contemporary art come from the world of graffiti. And while formal training and historic institutions still hold a massive presence in the art world, we are seeing more and more outsiders storm the gates and break through to become major names. That’s why we put together this guide to understand the types of graffiti art and art brut better. With this new knowledge, you’ll be able to better appreciate this diverse and dynamic realm of creative expression. What is Graffiti Art? Graffiti is a kind of art brut. It is any drawing or writing made on a surface, typically in public view. Graffiti itself is about as old as humanity. But beginning in the 1980s, graffiti began to be shown in fine art institutions, like galleries and museums. With the inclusion of many major graffiti artists into the formal art world, the lines have become more and more blurred. Graffiti art now refers to a thriving genre of art that uses the styles and techniques of street graffiti, but with finished products that are meant for more traditional art spaces. Some of the most well known artists of the last fifty years are graffiti artists, including the late Jean-Michel Basquiat. What’s the difference between graffiti and street art? The terms "graffiti" and "street art" are often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct characteristics that set them apart: Graffiti artists, like the famous Banksy, create and present their art in public spaces. Frequently, their art is not sanctioned by the owners of the property that the art is painted on. For this reason, graffiti art typically are revolutionary or otherwise transgressive themes. While graffiti can be seen as a subset of street art, the key difference lies in the legality and intent behind the creations. Graffiti is often associated with unauthorized markings and can be viewed as an act of rebellion or vandalism, whereas street art is generally more accepted and embraced by communities as a form of public art. However, it's worth noting that the line between graffiti and street art can be blurred, and there are artists who bridge both realms, incorporating elements of graffiti within their street art pieces. Ultimately, both graffiti and street art play vital roles in shaping the visual landscape of cities, sparking conversations, and challenging societal norms through artistic expression in public spaces. If you are still confused, see this helpful guide: Graffiti art is often associated with illicit, unauthorized markings made on public spaces using various tools like spray paint, markers, or etching tools. Historically, graffiti has been associated with acts of vandalism and considered a form of public defacement. Street art, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of artistic expressions in public spaces. Street artists often create their works with the permission of property owners or as part of organized initiatives to beautify urban environments. Street art is typically more intricate, visually elaborate, and conceptually driven compared to traditional graffiti. How Graffiti Art Started Graffiti art began as street art, and people often use the words graffiti and street art interchangeably. But a few New York City gallerists in the 1980s saw graffiti as a blooming world of creative expression. And soon, they were exhibiting the work of graffiti artists. A particular hotbed was the East Village in Manhattan. Fun Gallery and Now Gallery helped lead the way in presenting graffiti art in a new light. By placing the work by these outsider artists in the context of a gallery, audiences began to appreciate the art on a deeper level. Artists like Keith Haring, Crash, Lady Pink, and Jean-Michel Basquiat became major names in the art world. They inspired new generations of graffiti artists to pursue the style — as street art, gallery exhibits, or both. Today, major corporations have hired graffiti artists to promote products . Major auction houses sell graffiti art. And you can buy graffiti art at countless galleries around the world. Famous Graffiti Paintings Curious to see some great graffiti art? We’ve put together a few of the most impressive and noteworthy examples. Untitled Skull (1982) by Jean-Michel Basquiat Copyright Jean-Michel Basquiat This painting is legendary not only as part of Basquiat’s skull series, but also because of the major headlines it made in 2017. It was that year that Sotheby’s New York sold it for a staggering $110.5 million dollars, blowing past its $57 million estimate. Ignorance = Fear (1989) by Keith Haring Copyright Keith Haring Foundation This work epitomized Haring’s use of art as a tool to raise political consciousness. As a gay activist, the AIDS epidemic was central to much of Haring’s work in the 1980s. This painting united his powerful pop and graffiti hybrid style to deliver an important message. The Breakdown Comes (1983) by Lady Pink Copyright Lady Pink This masterpiece of graffiti art by Lady Pink reveals the deep anxieties of the middle class in 1980s New York City as an empowering fantasy of the downtrodden in the same time and place. The vitality and playfulness of the artwork helps the complex themes go down enjoyably. Graffiti art is such an exciting realm of the art world. Now a few generations into its acceptance into the establishment, it still continues to push boundaries and grab our attention. Now that you know a little more about it, you can shop graffiti art from this fascinating genre that RtistiQ has put together for you to explore. What is Art Brut? Art brut is a term coined by French artist Jean Dubuffet in the 1940s, literally meaning raw art. Dubuffet used the term to describe the realm of artwork made outside of the formal and academic art world. Sometimes called outsider art, artbrut contains a broad spectrum of work. The term is often used with a bias toward Western art circles. For instance, artists in hunter gatherer tribes might be highly trained and create pieces inside a well codified tradition, but their work might still be considered art brut to some critics—so a reader has to consider who is using the term and how. Art Brut artists typically have no formal artistic training and often face societal marginalization or live with mental health challenges. Their works are characterized by their authenticity, unconventionality, and a lack of adherence to traditional artistic norms. Art Brut encompasses a wide range of styles and techniques. Artists often work with unconventional materials and mediums, using found objects, discarded materials, or natural elements. Their creations are deeply personal and reflect their individual experiences, inner worlds, and unique perspectives. Art Brut has provided a platform for artists who have been marginalized or overlooked by the art establishment. Figures such as Adolf Wölfli, Henry Darger, and Martín Ramírez have gained recognition posthumously for their extraordinary bodies of work. Art Brut challenges the boundaries of what is considered "art" and questions the prevailing criteria for artistic validation. Famous Art Brut Paintings Many Art Brut artists remain relatively unknown, with their works often discovered posthumously. However, there are a few notable Art Brut paintings that have gained recognition and influenced the art world. Here are a few examples: Adolf Wölfli's crazy controversial Art: Adolf Wölfli, a Swiss artist and psychiatric patient, produced an extensive body of work during his confinement. His intricate and highly detailed drawings depict fantastical landscapes, intricate patterns, and narratives from his own imaginary world. Prisoner Drawings is a series of densely packed compositions that reveal Wölfli's creative vision and psychological complexity. "Götter [gods]" by August Walla: August Walla, an Austrian artist with schizophrenia, created a range of powerful and expressive artworks. "Mystery Train" by Martín Ramírez: Martín Ramírez, a Mexican-American artist, created intricate drawings while institutionalized in psychiatric hospitals. His works often feature repetitive lines and motifs, including trains, figures, and animals. Conclusion: Graffiti art and Art Brut are two distinct forms of artistic expression that have captivated audiences with their rawness, authenticity, and unconventional approaches. Graffiti art, born from underground subcultures, challenges social norms and transforms the urban landscape into a vibrant visual tapestry. Art Brut, created by self-taught artists, provides a platform for marginalized voices and challenges established artistic conventions. Together, these art forms exemplify the power of artistic expression to transcend boundaries, spark dialogue, and redefine the notion of what art can be in our complex and diverse world. Check out the Graffiti and Art Brut Collection on RtistiQ to explore some of magnificent works in recent times.

RtistiQ

29 Jul 2021

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In a rapidly changing world, the art industry has been profoundly impacted by the digital age and the emergence of millennials as a driving force in shaping its landscape. Olyvia Kwok-Decani, an esteemed expert in the field, provides valuable insights into the pivotal role millennials play in the evolution of art, particularly their influence on art consumption, creation, and the integration of technology. New era in the art market: As we delve into 2023, a significant shift has occurred, with millennials surpassing previous generations in art spending, marking a new era in the art market. The Art Basel-UBS report highlights this trend, revealing that millennials have exceeded boomers in their investment in artwork, leading to a notable increase in sales. Olyvia emphasizes this shift, stating, "Millennials spend four times as much as boomers and double the spending of Gen X." The digital age This has had a transformative shift. Growing up immersed in technology, millennials have wholeheartedly embraced digital art and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) with great enthusiasm. Digital platforms have become fundamental for showcasing and acquiring artwork, fostering a strong sense of community among artists and art enthusiasts alike. Recognizing the significance of these platforms, Olyvia emphasizes, "Social media has emerged as a powerful marketing tool for artists and galleries to engage with the millennial audience, who predominantly consume art digitally." Influence of millennials Artists are adapting their practices to cater to this tech-savvy generation. The integration of digital tools and experiences has become paramount, enabling artists to provide immersive and interactive encounters for their audience. The boundaries between technology and art have blurred, giving rise to innovative forms of expression and exploration. Olyvia notes “that this shift has opened up new avenues for artists to connect with a broader audience and forge stronger bonds within the art community.” Art consumption: Millennials' interest in art extends beyond mere consumption; they are actively leaving their mark as artists. A wave of talented millennial artists has emerged, bringing forth fresh perspectives and themes that captivate the contemporary art scene. Notable names such as Sadie Burnette, Sam Falls, and Lu Yang have garnered recognition for their distinctive approaches, leaving a lasting impact. Millennials prioritize experiences and emotional connections when engaging with art, seeking works that provoke thought and challenge traditional norms. Consequently, politically themed artwork has experienced a surge, as artists utilize their craft to voice opinions and address pressing social issues. Digital engagement Millennials' impact on the art world transcends aesthetics and digital engagement. Olyvia underscores the fact that millennials view art as “enjoyable assets and increasingly consider it a viable financial investment”. Art has become a popular avenue for wealth accumulation among this generation, offering an alternative to conventional investment options. Motivated by financial gains and a desire to support artists, millennials have fuelled the growth of the art market, actively participating in and contributing to the art ecosystem. In conclusion The advent of the digital era has brought about a transformative shift in the art world, with millennials leading the charge. Their profound affinity for technology, quest for meaningful experiences, and financial motivations have redefined the art landscape. From embracing digital platforms to spearheading the creation of immersive art experiences, millennials are reshaping the future of art consumption and creation. As Olyvia Kwok-Decani aptly summarizes, "The millennial influence can be seen in the way art consumption has moved to digital platforms and the innovative approaches artists are taking to engage their audience." With millennials at the forefront, the art world continues to evolve along an exciting trajectory. About The Author Olyvia Kwok Decani Olyvia Kwok Decani has been collecting and investing in art for over 15 years. After graduating from Queen Mary’s University in 2002 with a degree in BSc Statistics, Olyvia opened her first gallery in St. James’s London. With years of experience, alongside in-depth knowledge of the market and an extensive global network, Olyvia continues to be one of the most prestigious and successful individuals in the industry.

OLYVIA KWOK-DECANI

16 Jun 2023

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Are you looking to add some original artwork to your home or office? Buying art online can be a convenient and rewarding experience, allowing you to browse a wide selection of unique pieces from independent artists worldwide. Plus, you'll be supporting the arts community and investing in one-of-a-kind pieces that can add beauty and personality to any space. The online art market has been growing rapidly in recent years. In 2020, online art sales reached $12.4 billion, up from $6.7 billion in 2017. This growth is being driven by several factors, including: The increasing popularity of online shopping. The growing number of art collectors who are comfortable buying art online. The increasing availability of high-quality art online. The convenience of buying art online. We explore further some of the benefits of buying art online and why anyone should consider purchasing art online to expand their Artwork collection. Access to a broader selection of artwork. One of the most significant advantages of buying original artwork online is access to more pieces. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar galleries, online art marketplaces can feature thousands of works from artists worldwide. You can browse styles, mediums, and price points to find the perfect piece for your space and budget. Many online platforms offer search filters and personalised recommendations to discover new artists and styles. Convenience and ease of shopping. Buying original artwork online offers unparalleled convenience and ease of shopping. You can browse and purchase artwork from the comfort of your home without travelling to a physical gallery or attending an art fair. This is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or limited mobility. Additionally, online art marketplaces and online galleries often provide detailed information about each piece, including its size, medium, and artist biography, making an informed purchase decision easier. Many platforms offer secure payment options and hassle-free shipping, ensuring a smooth and stress-free buying experience. Direct support for independent artists. One of the most significant benefits of buying original artwork online is its direct support for independent artists. By purchasing artwork directly from the artist or through online marketplaces that support independent creators, you are helping to sustain their livelihood and support their creative endeavours. Emerging artists may have a different level of exposure or financial support than more established artists. Buying original artwork online is a convenient and meaningful way to support the arts community. Ability to discover new and emerging artists. Buying original artwork online allows you to discover new and emerging artists from all over the world. Online marketplaces and artist websites often feature a wide range of styles and mediums, allowing you to explore and find unique pieces you may not have otherwise discovered. Plus, you can snag a great deal on a piece before the artist becomes more well-known and their prices increase. This can be a great way to add variety to your art collection and support up-and-coming artists who are just starting to make a name for themselves in the art world. Some platforms allow you to follow the Artists to know about their next significant event or when they complete the next Artwork to be the first to know and acquire their latest works. Customisable options for framing and display. One of the benefits of buying original artwork online is the customisable options for framing and display. Many online marketplaces and artist websites offer various framing options, allowing you to choose the perfect frame to complement your new piece. Some websites even provide virtual tools to see how the artwork will look in your space before you purchase. This can help you make an informed decision about the size and placement of the piece in your home or office. The ability to customise your new artwork's framing and display options can help you create a truly unique and personalised addition to your collection. Technology is adding to the Art Buying Experience. With increasing technological advancement, buying Art Online through Online Galleries and Marketplaces is becoming more experiential. Use Augmented Reality to project the Artwork in your own space, Artificial Intelligence-based Art recommendations, and Image recognition tools to combine similar works or styles to explore and make your choices. Explore the works, mark your favourites, visualise in your settings and then decide to buy an artwork that suits your interest best. As a closing remark, it is safe to say that Buying Art Online will see more significant growth in coming years to support the democratisation of the Art Market and expand the reach for Artists through Online Galleries and Marketplaces to a newer audience across the globe. RtistiQ is one of the leading online marketplaces for Art, which has adopted new technologies such as Augmented Reality, 3D Spaces, Blockchain and NFC technologies not just to increase the virtual experience of Art Lovers but also to safeguard their investments through digital certification of the works to ensure genuine Authenticity.

RTISTIQ TEAM

30 May 2023

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Over the recent years, the growing art scene in Singapore has gathered much attention across the globe. Singapore has bloomed from just being an important financial hub to also a center of art and culture. For anyone looking to explore this booming art scene in Singapore, the various art museums and galleries in the island is just the right place to visit. The Singapore Art Museum (SAM) Location - 39 Keppel Rd, #01-02 Tanjong Pagar Distripark, Singapore 089065 (Heritage buildings at Bras Basah Road and Queen Street closed for redevelopment) Entirely dedicated to contemporary art, the Singapore Art Museum holds an exquisite collection of artistic works by some of the best local southeast and East Asian artists. While creating a lively art experience for all, it has also organized a variety of exciting art events such as the Singapore Biennale and the Singapore Art Week which also included live art performances, art tours, workshops, etc. It has opened up multiple venues for exhibiting art. Apart from the two heritage buildings, the former St. Joseph’s Institution and the former Catholic Street, the most recent addition is the one in Tanjong Pagar Distripark. The National Gallery Singapore Location – 1 St Andrew's Rd, Singapore 178957 The largest museum of Singaporean and Southeast Asian modern Art, it is sheltered in the two iconic Singapore buildings – the Supreme court building and the City hall. These two monuments are itself great works of art built during the colonial times in Singapore. Today, it is home to some of the best collection of modern Singapore and southeast Asian art including the works of prominent local artists like Georgette Chen, Che Chong Swee and Liu Kang as well as by leading artists from both southeast Asia and the rest of the globe such as Raden Saleh from Indonesia and Latiff Mohidin from Malaysia. The exhibitions in many ways expresses the essence of Singaporean art and heritage. There is also the Keppel Centre for Art Education here which is Singapore’s first foremost art education center that fosters an environment of learning and exploration for youths, children and families. The Art House Location – 1 Old Parliament Ln, Singapore 179429 The art house was first established as the Old Parliament House Limited but it was later was renamed as the Arts House Limited on 19 March 2014. It strives to build up a rich community life by connecting through the diverse artistic productions in Singapore. It hosts art activities and exhibitions on a regular basis facilitating interactions among artists and lovers of art. Gillman Barracks Location – 9 Lock Rd, Singapore 108937 While Gillman Barracks today constitutes a space dedicated to creative art, originally, it was a building constructed in 1936 as army barracks for the British’s 1st Battalion. It was named after General Sir Webb Gillman. In 2012, it was transformed into a space for housing some of the leading art galleries while retaining the main colonial architectural designs. This includes the ShanghART Singapore and Sundaram Tagore Gallery. Today, it exhibits a wide array of top contemporary art from different parts of the globe. Within the same structure is the NTU Centre for Contemporary Art (CCA) Singapore which is a research center that encourages experimentation with contemporary art. Goodman Arts Centre Location – 90 Goodman Rd, Singapore 439053 Established in 2011, the Goodman Arts Centre aims to build a lively space for art lovers to interact and experience different art forms such as fine art, dance, theatre and poetry. It is known for organizing some of the most thought provoking and exciting workshops and performances that reaches out to a diverse audience. Ranging from ceramic arts to cultural dance, there is something for everyone in Goodman Arts Centre. Collectors Contemporary Location – Petro Centre, 5 Jalan Kilang Barat, Singapore Collectors Contemporary brings to the fore innovative artistic productions from across the globe in a single platform; also providing an opportunity for art lovers to own some of these contemporary art works. Its selection of exhibits encompasses extraordinary modern and contemporary artwork of high quality. Famous for housing the largest collection of artworks by the famous icon, Andy Warhol, it also regularly arranges educational events and programs for art students with professional artists thereby creating a space of learning. NUS Museum Location – University Cultural Centre, Singapore Unlike other art museums, the NUS museum is actually a university museum set up to encourage cultural artistic life within the university. To enrich the learning experience, it organizes exhibitions, workshops, film screenings and public programs which is carefully curated. It consists of nine galleries which are mostly focused on presenting Southeast Asian art and culture. This includes four permanent collections – the south and Southeast Asian Collection, the Lee Kong Chian Collection, the Ng Eng Teng Collection and the Straits Chinese Collection. The Parkview Museum Location - L3, Parkview Square 600 North Bridge Road, Singapore The main highlight of the Parkview Museum established by the Parkview Group is Italian contemporary art and is famous for holding the largest Salvador Dali collection outside Spain. It however also figures as an important space that encourages the growth of the local art scene. This organizes solo shows and theme-based exhibitions mostly focused on architectural design and traditional art and culture.

RTISTIQ TEAM

30 Jan 2023

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