IWOPF'2001 Education Kit

An art fair is a kind of trade fair specialising in art. One of the oldest art fairs is held in Basel, Switzerland which will present its 32nd event this year. Each fair usually has its own specialism, either by media or date or both. For example: The International Fine Art Fair in New York presents paintings and sculpture that span from the Renaissance to the 1960’s.

What is the International Works on Paper Fair?

The International Works on Paper Fair (IWOPF) is the only dedicated fair of its kind to be held in the South East Asia and Pacific regions. Akky van Ogtrop, a dealer, printmaker and art historian established the IWOPF as an annual event in 1989. In 1993 the fair became a biennial event to alternate with the Melbourne Art Fair. Since 1995, an advisory committee guides and advises the direction of the IWOPF, under the directorship of Akky van Ogtrop.

What makes the IWOPF 2001 different?

The IWOPF 2001 is not only dedicated to showcasing works of art it is equally devoted to the discussion, education and promotion of the artistic process of ideas and production, in addition to the display, conservation and exchange of every conceivable kind of work of art on paper (e.g. lithographs, watercolours, posters, photography, and antique books).

The IWOPF 2001 provides the opportunity:

• to view a range of work, artists and dealers under one roof
• to see international works that would not otherwise be shown in Australia
• to examine up-close extremely valuable works of art
• to experience at first hand the techniques of professional artists
• to promote emerging Australian artists
• for art galleries, dealers, print workshops and artists to network
• for young people to visit private galleries/dealers in an informal environment

What does a visit to the IWOPF 2001 offer students?

• a portal/entry to a unique art event
• a vibrant interaction beyond the classroom with arts practitioners, works and arts professionals, both do
• mestic and international
• up-close observation of demonstrations by experienced practitioners and artists working in a variety of media in one visit
• a tangible reinforcement of language points discussed in the classroom
• access to professional knowledge in a commodious environment
• a refreshing alternative for a visual arts visit

These opportunities can:

• arouse interest in the commercial world of the arts
• broaden awareness of the multifarious job opportunities within the arts sector
• assist teachers in the presentation of current syllabus themes
• encourage students to explore the visual arts in different ways
• introduce the student to local and international possibilities
• provide starting points for further classroom discussion