Sydney Antiques & Art Fair
Image: Japanese bronze articulated lobster Meiji Period, c. 1900.
Learn something new about something old – the annual Sydney Antiques & Art Fair is on in September at Randwick Racecourse. Presented by the Australian Antiques and Art Dealers Association (AAADA) this exhibition welcomes all members of the general public to browse or buy.
“I would say there is something for everybody,” said Dawn Davis, President of the AAADA. “We have a great selection of dealers, right from the sort of high end French furniture right down to vintage clothing… there’s jewellery and art and even book dealers.”
The AAADA fairs in Sydney and Melbourne are the only ones that are endorsed and vetted to international guidelines. The association itself has very strict, ethical guidelines for its members, including full descriptions and clear price display of items. With over 40 members exhibiting at this year’s show, it promises to be an emporium of intriguing delights.
“I never cease to be amazed at what people come up with… the world is full of unfound treasures,” exclaimed Davis. The very nature of these items – being relics of the past and in many cases domestic objects – inspires awe and bewilderment from the casual observer. Davis believes it’s incumbent upon dealers to demystify their trade:
“For a lot of people it’s a learning exercise…part of what we do is educate the public.”
To that end, the fair will also feature a series of lectures on a number of relevant topics.
Though fashion and design have gone through stages of modernism and minimalism, Davis believes there will always be a place for antiques:
“We’re in a very disposable sort of world now…you look back to the past for some form of security.” (RB)
[Gala Preview: Sep 7, 6–9pm. $30 inc. champagne and canapés.]
Sep 8–11, 10am–6pm (5pm on Sun). The Kensington Room, Royal Randwick, Alison Rd, Randwick. Tickets & info: www.aaada.org.au
BY RITA BRATOVICH
