Serious art. Serious Fun: The Auckland Art Fair Vernissage

(Auckland, New Zealand) Auckland is bracing itself for the standout art event of the year ¨C the Auckland Art Fair Vernissage ¨C the exclusive preview gala opening of the Fair on 17 May.

Vernissage is a French word that refers to the final flourishes made to a painting before public viewing. The word has evolved into a term which refers to the opening night of a significant art event. The Auckland Art Fair Vernissage gala party is just that.

The black tie extravaganza offers entertainment, wine, food and most importantly, the first opportunity to view and purchase from more than 600 of the most sought-after contemporary artworks in Australasia before the Fair opens to the public.

Attended by local dignitaries and celebrities and featured guests including the renowned UK art critic and TV presenter, Matthew Collings, the evening is set to be the highlight of Auckland's social calendar.

Featuring a selection of works from some of New Zealand and Australia's hottest artists such as Michael Parekowhai, Judy Millar, Callum Morton and Linde Ivimey: an indoor Sculpture Court and public installations featuring works by international heavy weights such as Len Lye and Tony Oursler, the Auckland Art Fair is like no other art event, and the Vernissage is like no other gala opening.

The Auckland Art Fair takes place from 18-20 May at the Marine Events Centre, Viaduct Harbour, and will also feature a comprehensive public education programme including on-site lectures by Auckland Art Gallery Toi o T¨¡maki and a series of presentations, tours, and artist talks. Over 10,000 visitors are expected to make the most of the chance to view and purchase from the impressive selection of works.

The Vernissage is presented by Sofitel, in association with Hesketh Henry, and features wine by Kim Crawford.

Tickets to the Vernissage are $125 and are available through Ticketek at www.ticketek.co.nz

The Fair takes place from 18-20 May at the Marine Events Centre, Viaduct Harbour. For a full listing of participating galleries and enquiries about the Fair's special features, please visit: www.aucklandartfair.co.nz

The Auckland Art Fair is proudly presented by the New Zealand Contemporary Art Trust and gratefully acknowledges the continued support of its founding partners; Auckland City Council, Heart Of The City, Tourism Auckland, and ASB Community Trust. The Trust also thanks its Principal Sponsor Hesketh Henry and major sponsors ANZ Private Bank and Staples Rodway for their generous support in making this event possible.

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