There’s a New Art Market in Town

The Hamptons have long been a Mecca for artists. There is something magical about the quality of light on these twin forks of land, surrounded by water, which is conducive to painting and creating. Where artists convene, art lovers, art dealers and art collectors will follow. Enter artMRKT Hamptons.

ArtMRKT Hamptons is a unique, new art fair debuting in Bridgehampton on July 14 through the 17 at the Bridgehampton Historical Society Grounds. Attendees will be able to view art from 35 important galleries from all over the country in a relaxed environment. You may leisurely browse paintings, sculpture, drawings and photography while strolling through the festive, tented venue. Cost of a one-day ticket is only $15. The opportunity to behold and purchase such an array of artwork is priceless!

If the idea of investing in artwork intrigues you but you’re on the fence, there are many “pros” to consider. Art is an investment you can enjoy every day. It is an investment that enriches your life and brings color, form and texture to your home. Art evokes emotions; joy, sadness or it can kindle a memory. It can become or create a focal point and be an epicenter in a room. A home can be designed entirely around the art. If treated as an accessory, art can tie everything together or it can simply be the icing on the cake. Art will initiate conversations and elicit opinions. Unlike a sofa, art arouses passion! The art you select says something about you as an individual; art is a unique reflection of your personal taste. Art, well chosen, can dramatically increase in value or become an heirloom to pass down to future generations. In this economy, not many investments can claim all of these criteria. [expand]

Local galleries participating include the Boltax Gallery on Shelter Island, Halsey Mckay Gallery in East Hampton, Kathryn Markel Fine Arts in Bridgehampton, the Sara Nightingale Gallery in Water Mill. There will be dozens of New York City and Brooklyn galleries, as well as those from as far away as Amersterdam and Bangkok.

The Hamptons affords residents and visitors a host of unique and cultural opportunities. ArtMRKT, Taste of Two Forks, Hampton Designer Showhouse to name a few. Natural beauties aside, these amazing events are a big part of the allure of this area. There is nothing mundane about spending a day perusing so many significant works of art gathered under one roof. I urge you to take advantage of this event. I feel very fortunate to live in an area where we can enjoy so many remarkable events.

As an alternative to the beach this weekend, find out what artMRKT Hamptons is all about. It opened to rave reviews in its incarnation in San Francisco in May. If you are unable to attend in person, or if you want early access to make purchases, there is an online auction called MRKTworks. This online auction consists of work donated by participating galleries and the proceeds will go to support local Hamptons-based nonprofit organizations.

Art as an excuse to party? There is also an opening night, catered Preview Party and a VIP Party sponsored by Cadillac that will benefit Southampton Hospital.

Enjoy your art this summer, make a great investment, and attend a glamorous party that benefits a worthy cause. ArtMRKT Hamptons makes it easy. For tickets, directions or more information visit www.art-mrkt.com/hamptons.

Allegra Dioguardi, Styled and Sold, www.styledandsold.com. [/expand]