Episode 103: Inside the Affordable Art Fair with Georgia Huestis

4 November 2025 | Paint Rest Repeat Podcast for Artists

Updated: 16 December 2025

TL;DR: In Episode 103 of Paint Rest Repeat, Ros Gervay sits down with Georgia Huestis, the Fair Director of the Affordable Art Fair in Australia. They explore how the fair works behind the scenes, what’s trending in the Australian art market, how artists can apply, and what the closure of The Other Art Fair means for the local scene. If you’ve ever wanted to exhibit or just understand the evolving art-buying landscape, this episode is for you.

Inside the Affordable Art Fair: What Every Artist and Collector Should Know

The Affordable Art Fair is fast becoming one of Australia's most exciting platforms for artists and collectors alike — but what really goes on behind the scenes? In this episode of Paint Rest Repeat, I chat with Georgia Huestis, the Fair Director for the Australian wing of the Affordable Art Fair, to pull back the curtain on how it all works, what’s trending, and how artists can get involved.

Whether you’re dreaming of exhibiting or just curious about the art-buying landscape in Australia, this is an unmissable peek inside the fair that champions real, living artists and art lovers of all kinds.

Let's dive in!

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Episode 103: Listen using the player below, or click on your favourite listening platform to subscribe and listen there:

Behind the Scenes of the Affordable Art Fair: Insights for Artists and Collectors

The Affordable Art Fair has quickly become one of Australia’s most dynamic and inclusive art events. With editions in Melbourne, Sydney, and now Brisbane, the fair connects thousands of visitors with living artists and real, accessible art.

In this episode, Ros Gervay interviews Georgia Huestis, who shares what goes into running a fair of this scale, what artists need to know to get involved, and why art fairs are evolving for the better.

What Makes the Affordable Art Fair So Engaging?

The fair’s mission is to make art approachable and to help people fall in love with collecting. Georgia shares how the fair brings this mission to life:

• Interactive installations: Think live sketching from an artist inside an ATM booth!

• Live painting and demonstrations: Give visitors a window into the artist’s process.

• Atmosphere over intimidation: The goal is to spark curiosity, not overwhelm buyers.

These features don’t just entertain—they boost connection and sales.

From One City to Three: A Growing National Platform

Launched in Melbourne in 2019, the Affordable Art Fair has now expanded to Sydney and Brisbane. Sydney’s 2025 edition is moving to Carriageworks, a beloved cultural hub, offering even more space, energy, and opportunities for connection.

Georgia highlights how each city brings its own vibe, audience, and opportunities for artists and galleries. With national reach and strong buyer interest, it’s an exciting time for both exhibitors and collectors.

Thinking of Exhibiting? Here’s What Artists Should Know

Georgia offers clear advice for artists who are curious about exhibiting:

• Start with a collective: It’s a cost-effective way to get your foot in the door.

• Prepare your application thoughtfully: Curators are looking for a cohesive booth, clear pricing, and readiness to engage.

• Think seasonal: End-of-year fairs mean buyers are often shopping for gifts. Have a range of price points.

The team is approachable and encourages artists to reach out directly with questions or to explore collaborative options. If you're unsure, just start a conversation.

What’s Trending in the Art Market?

Georgia shares a few fun and fascinating trends from recent fairs:

• Ceramics and tactile art: Textures are in.

•  Unexpected subjects: Art featuring bathtubs, broccoli, and paper pulp sculptures is catching attention.

•  Younger buyers: A growing wave of fresh, curious collectors is entering the scene.

There’s also a noticeable rise in interest in sculpture and multidimensional works, with many artists exploring humour and play in their subject matter.

The takeaway? The art market isn’t slowing down. It’s shifting, diversifying, and welcoming new voices.

The Closure of The Other Art Fair: What It Means

With The Other Art Fair ending its operations in Australia, many artists have questions. Georgia acknowledges the gap this leaves but remains optimistic:

• The demand for contemporary art is still strong.

• The Affordable Art Fair is growing, not shrinking.

• There are still plenty of pathways for artists to thrive.

She notes that the Affordable Art Fair is receiving more applications and buyer interest than ever, showing the strength and resilience of the Australian art scene.

For artists worried about opportunities shrinking, this episode offers reassurance that the ecosystem is still vibrant and full of potential.

How to Get Involved

If you're keen to attend or exhibit, Georgia recommends:

• Visiting affordableartfair.com and registering your interest for Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane.

• Emailing the Australian team directly at [email protected] to start the conversation.

The process is less intimidating than you might think—and support is available every step of the way.

FAQs: The Affordable Art Fair for Artists and Collectors

Q: What is the Affordable Art Fair?

A: It’s an annual event held in major Australian cities that showcases contemporary, accessible art from living artists via galleries and collectives.

Q: Is it expensive to exhibit at the Affordable Art Fair?

A: Costs vary depending on your setup. Joining a collective is an affordable entry point for many emerging artists.

Q: What kind of art sells well at the Affordable Art Fair?

A: Textured, tactile works like ceramics and paintings are popular, especially when priced between $500 and $5000.

Q: What makes the Affordable Art Fair different?

A: Its commitment to approachability. It creates an environment where both new and experienced collectors feel comfortable.

Q: How do I apply to exhibit at the Affordable Art Fair?

A: Through the fair's website or by contacting the local team. A well-thought-out booth proposal and pricing plan are key.

Final Thoughts: A Welcoming Space for Artists and Art Lovers

As Georgia puts it, the Affordable Art Fair is about “helping people make a living from making art.”

It’s not just a place to sell — it’s a space to be seen, celebrated, and supported. Whether you're on the collector side or the canvas side, it’s a place to learn, grow, and feel truly welcomed.

If you’ve been wondering whether it’s your time to step into the spotlight—as a buyer or as an artist—this episode is your invitation.

If you’re ready for more personalised support in building your art business, there are plenty of ways we can work together — from self-paced courses and practical resources to memberships and masterminds. Reach out here.

That’s it for this episode. I’m so glad we could share this time together. Remember — every small step you take brings you closer to the artist you’re becoming.

Ros x