London has firmly established itself as the centre of the art world and the capital has become home to annual art fairs. Returning for its second year, Art14 showcases over 140 galleries from 42 countries, which ensures there will be something for everyone from paintings to cutting-edge photography. With an exciting events programme planned along with the launch of London First that gives galleries under five years old the opportunity to present their roster of talented artists, this fair is a must for the art fair calendar.
Here are five things to look out for at London's freshest art fair
A WORLD OF ART UNDER ONE ROOF
Art14 doesn’t call itself ‘London’s global art fair’ for nothing. Now in its second year, the event will welcome to Olympia 180 galleries from 42 different countries as far afield as Colombia and Taiwan. Prices from £500.
PUNCHY PROJECTS
Prepare to be surprised as you pace the aisles. Interspersed with gallery stands are large-scale installations, including an oil can installation by Benin artist Romuald Hazoumé and a ‘bleeding’ imperial throne, ‘Waterfall’, by Chinese artist Zhao Zhao. He’s tipped to be the next Ai Weiwei, dontchaknow.
INSIDER TOURS
Splurge an extra tenner and you can join a tour of the fair tailored to your interests. Photography tours run on Friday and Saturday. African art tours are on Saturday and Sunday. Or just tag along with daily highlights tours (free with ticket).
PUNKY PERFORMANCES
The fair has teamed up with London’s Zabludowicz Collection to present performances and films by 12 artists, including ‘Hypno Project’, a project by Doug Fishbone in which participants watch one of the artist’s films while under hypnosis and respond to subconscious cues.
CUTTING-EDGE GRUB
Contemporary art meets top-notch chow in the form of ‘Food 4 Art’. A different chef will oversee the menu on each day of the fair, starting with Polpetto’s Florence Knight and concluding with the mighty Richard Corrigan. Tickets (from £26) include fair entry but you’ll need to book in advance if you want to do more than just eat with your eyes.