An attendee at a previous The Other Art Fair poses for a selfie with artist Guarii S Kumaar.Courtesy of The Other Art Fair. The Other Art Fair marks its Atlanta debut October 1-4, bringing 100 artists together to Grant Park’s Enspire Mercantile for what’s billed to be “an art fair like no othe r.” Presented by online art gallery Saatchi Art, The Other Art Fair is dedicated to supporting independent artists and making art more accessible. “A lot of people feel intimidated walking into a gallery,” says Nicole Garton, The Other Art Fair’s global fair director. So, the fair leans into a convivial feel centered on discovery and in-person connection. Atlanta attendees can peruse and purchase original artwork while meeting the artists onsite.    The Other Art Fair’s launch in Atlanta marks the fair’s first foray in the Southeast, following fairs in major cities across the globe including London and Los Angeles.  “On the world stage, Atlanta holds its own,” Garton says, noting both the city’s rich history and contemporary appeal. “But also, [Atlanta] seems poised to continually reinvent itself … Emerging artists are such a great community to highlight within that milieu because it’s all about breaking new ground and trying new things and experimenting.” Attendees peruse art at a previous The Other Art Fair.Courtesy of The Other Art Fair. The Other Art Fair aims to showcase such talent, but organizers also offer the artists mentorship and professional support. It’s part of the reason Atlanta artist Audrey Beharie-McGee says the fair feels different than other shows. “I think as an artist you suffer from [thinking], you know, ‘are you good enough? … is this going to be strong enough?’” she says. “But the way we’re supported is so amazing.” A singer-songwriter, Beharie-McGee is not a traditionally trained artist. Rather, she discovered her craft later in life after Hashimoto’s Disease affected her singing voice. “[Art] was cathartic insofar as it was giving me life again, because I really thought I’d died when I couldn’t sing anymore,” Beharie-McGee explains. She refers to her exploration of fine art and photography as “soulism.” “Because it really is,” she says, “my soul being rejuvenated again.” Throughout the fair, attendees can hear such stories and learn about each artist’s creative process. Other highlights beyond the traditional booths include a DJ, food trucks, immersive exhibits and an area where works are specifically curated by price point. The special installations include an interactive mural where attendees can color, a live poet who will craft impromptu works on a typewriter,  and the Karmacy, where participants can choose a bottled dose of “higher vibrations,” such as peace or encouragement. The good vibes are then passed on as each participant replaces the message inside with a note of their own. Artworks concealed from view for Blind Date with an ArtworkCourtesy of The Other Art Fair. For the adventurous, Blind Date with an Artwork is a particularly popular attraction that offers the chance to buy artwork sight unseen. In that special exhibit all artworks are wrapped and concealed from view; buyers only get a few clues about the contents before they purchase. Garton says the experience is a fun departure from the concept that one should only buy what they love. “I think the joy of discovery and surprise is also a factor that some people enjoy,” Garton says. “Once you’ve seen a lot of art you think ‘Okay. I’ve kind of seen it all,’” she adds of her own experience. “But that’s never the case. My eyes are continually opened to people innovating in new ways.’” The Other Art Fair. October 1-4. Enspire Mercantile in Grant Park, 259 Milton Avenue SE, Atlanta. Thursday’s opening night tickets are $50. Friday-Sunday tickets purchased in advance are $18 (until sold out); $20 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at theotherartfair.com/atlanta/tickets/.     The post Debuting in Atlanta, The Other Art Fair re-frames the art show experience appeared first on Atlanta Magazine. ...read more read less