Art Jakarta, Southeast Asia’s most significant and prestigious art fair, returns on 4 – 6 October 2024 to JIExpo, Kemayoran, Jakarta. Art Jakarta plays an essential role in the development of contemporary culture as a dynamic point of connectivity for art industry stakeholders and the evolving sectors within the region’s burgeoning creative economy.
Bringing together the largest cross-section of society, Art Jakarta is a platform to share ideas and forge new and fruitful relationships while contributing to the sustainability of the art ecosystem. “Art Jakarta 2024 promises to be a vibrant and enriching experience, and we look forward to welcoming our visitors to explore the diverse and captivating world of contemporary art,” Art Jakarta Founder and Fair Director Tom Tandio told NOW! Jakarta Magazine.
“Art Jakarta 2024 has grown the number of participating galleries from sixty-eight to seventy-five, with forty-two local and thirty-three international galleries, reflecting our growing global reach and appeal,” Tom said. Included galleries are from Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, China, Australia, and Russia. Indonesian galleries are from Bandung, Yogyakarta, Jakarta, Surabaya and Bali. The exhibition space has expanded by 2000 square meters with a redesign locating all public functions in Hall C1 of JIExpo.
Some of the participating Indonesian galleries are: ISA Art, Puri Art, Zola Zulu, Nadi, Tony Raka, ROH Projects and RUCI Art Space, along with international galleries such as Contemporary Tokyo, Mizuma, Sullivan + Strumpf, the Drawing Room and Galerie OVO.
“Art Jakarta strives for greater exposure for ASEAN artists, and this year, we are partnering with Balai Seni Negara, marking their first-time exhibition promoting Malaysian contemporary arts and facilitating exchange programs. We have also built upon our association with KOFICE (Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange),” Tandio stated. “Our goal remains to cultivate a culture of inclusivity, enabling artists to exhibit their works across different countries and reach a broader audience. This a testament to our shared vision of exchange and mutual growth in the region.”
Art Jakarta collaborates with the Jakarta Biennale, open 3 October 2024, to attract more international visitors to the fair. Bringing Indonesia’s leading art institution into the spotlight, Art Jakarta hosts the international MACAN breakfast, offering guests an exclusive opportunity to explore Museum MACAN.
Look out for:
• Art Jakarta Talks: Insights from artists, curators, academics, collectors, and various art professionals.
• Art Jakarta Spot: A platform for special presentations featuring exclusively designed installations.
• Art Jakarta Scene: A section dedicated to artist collectives and non-profits aiming to raise funds for their aspirations.
Advice for Unexperienced Fair Attendees
A lack of art knowledge and fair know-how can be intimidating for the novice. Therefore, preparation is essential to get the most value and enjoyment from your experience. Go to artjakarta.com to familiarise yourself with the program of events and the galleries. This site links directly to participating gallery websites, visit and see which artists appeal to you. Understand the JIExpo floor plan for easy navigation, noting areas where special events are held, refreshments and the bathrooms are located.
Traversing the venue, taking in all galleries, spending time at the booths of most interest, and attending the special educational events require a lot of energy and can easily consume half a day. It is best to arrive when the doors open at 11 AM. A benefit of attending multiple days is that different works will be displayed on the following days. Ensure you have plenty of time. Comfortable shoes are a must.
You may need to understand how artworks are valued, so ask questions of gallery staff and the artists who are eager to meet you and explain their work. Understand the area in your home, apartment, or workspace you wish to enhance and the design and colours you may want a new artwork to coordinate with. Be clear of your budget and put a limit on your spending. Explore affordable options of prints and limited editions. Don’t be afraid to ask for discounts, be curious, and listen to your inner voice.
“For someone just starting out collecting, I would advise focusing on understanding the artists and the messages behind their work. It’s important to appreciate art for its meaning and the emotions it evokes, rather than viewing it solely as an investment,” Tom Tandio stated.
“Building relationships with artists and curators is also crucial. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into their creative processes and the stories behind their pieces. This connection enriches your understanding of the art and helps you make more informed choices for your collection. Ultimately, collect what resonates—let your passion guide you!”
Art Jakarta tickets are available at www.artjakarta.com from 20 September 2024
Art Jakarta 2024
Date: 4 – 6 October 2024
Location: JIExpo Kemayoran
Instagram: @artjakarta | Facebook: Art Jakarta
Photos courtesy of Art Jakarta
