The Changing Business of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art: Markets, Audiences, Artists, and the Large Art Fairs. Issue 3 (26th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jones, Tod; Booth, Jessica; Acker, Tim
• Is Part Of: Journal of arts management, law, and society. Volume 46:Issue 3(2016)
• Page Start: 107
• Page End: 121
• Publication Date: 2016-05-26
• Subjects: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art -- art events -- art fairs -- art market -- assemblages -- Australia -- ethnic art -- relational products; Arts -- Periodicals; Performing arts -- Periodicals; Performing arts -- Law and legislation -- Periodicals; Art and state -- Periodicals; 700
• DOI: 10.1080/10632921.2016.1182953
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1063-2921

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article analyzes the relationship between the growth of large Australian Aboriginal art fairs and shifts in the fine art market and state policies; audience and art insiders' experiences; and the implications of art fair participation for artists and art centers. In contrast to the traditional gallery model, the art fairs draw buyers and artists together in regional centers, along with families, managers, curators, commentators, administrators, and politicians. Using the assemblages concept, we analyze the emergence of a new engagement that prioritizes social, cultural, and interpersonal aspects of art making and where buyers consume "relational goods" linked to their purchasing context.