The Affordable Art Fair comes to Hampstead for the first time ever next month and has launched a new art prize inspired by the rolling landscape of Hampstead Heath.
The fair is running a competition called the Cass Art Prize and artists from across London have produced original works inspired by the Heath.
A shortlist of 12 finalists has been announced this week, selected by a panel of judges including Ham&High editor Geoff Martin.
Colourful watercolours of trees, a striking painting of woman nestled in tree branches, a metallic sculpture and black and white pottery were among the shortlisted entries.
The winner will be revealed at the Fair’s Private View on Wednesday, October 26 and they will receive �1,000 as well as the opportunity to exhibit at the fair.
Romy Westwood, Hampstead fair director, said: “We wanted to create an opportunity for local artists to use the beauty of Hampstead Heath as inspiration to create a piece of artwork and get the chance for it to be exhibited at one of the largest contemporary art fairs in the UK.”
Ninety galleries will exhibit an exciting mix of well-known and emerging artists, promising a fun day for art lovers and families.
The Affordable Art Fair originated in London more than a decade ago and now takes place in nine major cities across the world.
With a record-breaking number of visitors from all over the capital attending the Affordable Art Fair in Battersea, founder Will Ramsay saw the demand for a north London offshoot.
Mr Ramsay said: “Affordable Art Fair’s winning formula is simple – a relaxed, unstuffy environment for people to feel confident to explore and learn about contemporary painting, sculpture, photography and original print from a huge variety of both established and emerging artists all priced between �40 and �4,000.”
The fair is complemented by a fantastic programme of workshops and events.
Hampstead School of Art tutors will also be providing daily hands-on workshops across a range of media.
The fair is being held on Hampstead Heath from October 27-30.
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