The Melbourne Art Fair has released the details of its 2014 program, which is set to run from August 13 – 17 at Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building.

Gallery exhibitions, satellite events, free education programs and art projects around the city will all showcase works of living Australian artists hand-picked from galleries in Australasia.

The Fair is considered the epicentre of the Melbourne Art Week—a seven-day citywide program of lectures, forums, free children’s workshops and events.

The Melbourne Art Fair’s new Director, Barry Keldoulis, described the 2014 program as extremely bold and inspiring,

“Our selection of artists and galleries for 2014 will build on the Melbourne Art Fair’s grand traditions and significantly add to the excitement the event always generates,” said Keldoulis.

 
 
 
 
 
 

He suggested the following highlights for visitors:

Vernissage: A Celebration of Living Artists:

The Vernissage exhibit will officially launch the Melbourne Art Fair on Wednesday 13 August. This year, the Vernissage is a celebration of living artists with some of Australasia’s leading artists invited to attend as guests of honour.Patrcik Doherty, Dig a hole, bury yourself, 2012. MAF Platform 2014. Image: melbourneartfair.com.au

Patrcik Doherty, Dig a hole, bury yourself, 2012. MAF Platform 2014. Image: melbourneartfair.com.au

The Collector Program:

Returning in 2014, the Collector Program offers exclusivity for collectors to Melbourne’s contemporary art scene. It includes behind-the-scenes experiences in Melbourne’s premier art institutions, admission and access concessions, a collectors’ lounge, collection tours and private party invitations.

Image: melbourneartfair.com.au

MAF Platform:

MAF Platform is a new initiative for 2014 that presents young galleries and artist run initiatives (ARIs) showcasing emerging talent.

MAF Video:

MAF Video will present a curated selection of the best new media and video art by artists at the forefront of their field.

Image: melbourneartfair.com.au

Other highlights will be the unveiling by the Melbourne Art Foundation Commission of a new, large-scale installation piece by a prominent Australian artist, as well as the popular lectures and forums initiative that will be presented over four days.

The fair is presented by the Melbourne Art Foundation, a not for profit organisation established to help strengthen the Australian visual arts industry.

It will coincide with Melbourne Art Week which runs from August 11-17, commencing with a keynote speaker address at NGV International, followed by the Galleries and Collectors’ dinner at the Sofitel. 

Details of participating galleries and artists will be announced in May 2014. For more information visit the melbourneartfair.com.au