#FEVENTS: Artist Project 2016

Just this past weekend, the ninth annual Artist Projectcontemporary art fair took place in the Better Living Centre. With over 250 artists and hundreds of pieces on display, the show was unforgettable.

If you missed it, don’t worry, here’s our recap of our faves from the show:

Crystal Kings Blazing

This 100 foot long entrance installation that was created by Happy Sleepy, a collaboration by Toronto artists Marc Ngui and Magda Woityra. All eyes were on this piece because of the vibrant colours used, with the geometric vinyl banners and paintings.

Image:Crystal King Ape by Happy Sleepy

UNTAPPED Emerging Artists Competition

In partnership with DeSerres, this was one of the most popular features at the fair. The competition gave recognition to 20 emerging artists, giving them the opportunity to launch their artwork at a professional level art fair for free.

Image: Perceptium by Vickie Vainionpää

Installation Zone

This area featured works from artists who specialize in large-scale sculptures, conceptual art and installations. The aim was to transform traditional spaces into experiential art pieces. A highlight includes Melbourne-based artist, Rushdi Anwar’s installation dubbed ‘Irhal (Expel), Hope and Sorrow of Displacement.’ Originally from Kurdistan, Anwar’s large scale installation of 25 stacked and burnt wooden chairs reflects on the socio-political unrest in his home country and his heritage.

Image: Irhal (Expel) by Rushdi Anwar

Art Battle

In this speedy 20 minute session, 16 artists from the fair created their best work in a live tournament style competition. Visitors were invited to get a close up right by the artists’ easels and then later bid for their favourite piece.

Image: Art Battle

Performance Art

Brought to the fair by OCAD University’s Centre for Emerging Artists & designer Adam Filek. The installation, Walking and Talking Stones, hovered between performance and living sculpture.

Image: Walking and Talking Stones

Pretty spectacular, right? Artist Project will be back next year, so make sure you keep your eyes and ears open for next year’s dates.

You can follow @artistprojectto for all the updates on Artist Project 2017.