Roy’s Art Fair: In Conversation with Roy Tyson

TRUMAN BREWERY 3 – 6 OCTOBER 2019

The busy art fair season is fast approaching and we really are spoilt for choice with what’s on offer. Each fair is as unique and diverse as the last, which is why we wanted to get in touch with Roy Tyson, co-creator of Roy’s Art Fair.

Roy’s Art Fair prides itself for being an art fair for artists, created by artists – giving a unique 360-degree view when it comes to organising. Roy Tyson created the event alongside fellow artist, Samuel Peacock, after realising their experience as professional artists could be valuable for creating an exciting, unique experience for both artists and visitors alike.

The team have a strong focus on promoting all levels of artists from emerging to established and have hosted events in London and Glasgow.

Roy’s Art Fair is coming up, do you have anything in particular you are excited about this October?

This next event will be our 5^th edition and it’s exciting for us in many ways. As artists ourselves we’ve experienced exhibiting at Truman Brewery a few times, it has a unique buzz as a venue to any other that we have experienced. When we started Roy’s Art Fair, one of our biggest ambitions was to be able to host our event at Truman, so just being here with a sold out line up of 92 artists is incredibly exciting for us. Also, we are working with amazingly talented artists. The level of art is off the scale, and we are sure visitors will be able to appreciate the quality and variety of the artwork on show.

As artists yourselves, do you think this has its advantages of organising an art fair?

Yes. Something that has been a huge advantage is being able to relate to artists. Not just in a creative way, but in many ways such as how it feels to exhibit, promoting yourself, working with galleries, clients, right down to understanding tax returns. Artists are amazing people to work with, and we hope that during the events they feel they can approach us at any time and know that we understand them.

What would you say are the biggest obstacles to overcome?

As organisers the biggest obstacle is juggling over 90 artists. Ensuring that each exhibitor gets exactly the same service and feels part of the family. This is particularly difficult with artists based overseas, as they aren’t able to come to our network events very often meaning most of our communication is via email. We keep in regular contact with all exhibitors which hopefully means everyone feels included and connected.

What are some good questions visitors should ask about the art they love at the fair?

Artists love talking about their practice. Creating is a passion for most artists and artworks are mostly a very personal, emotional expression. I’d encourage visitors to reach out to artists in particular if you see an artwork and do not understand it. A simple question of ‘What is this artwork about’ or ‘Can you tell me the story behind this work’ will allow the artist to explain the artwork. This usually helps the visitor connect to the artwork and the artist.

” Something that has been a huge advantage is being able to relate to artists. Not just in a creative way, but in many ways such as how it feels to exhibit, promoting yourself, working with galleries, clients, right down to understanding tax returns. “

Roy Tyson

How do you think a scheme like Own Art is beneficial in an art fair environment?

We have found the scheme to be incredibly beneficial. Allowing visitors to purchase artworks using Own Art allows for flexibility, whilst for the artists, it opens up the opportunity to reach more customers which builds their collector base allowing for possible future sales.

What is your best piece of advice for someone who is attending Roy’s Art Fair for the first time?

Come with an open mind, with time to spare and enjoy the atmosphere. Get involved by talking with artists, whilst joining in the free workshops and seeing the live artwork.

What would you say makes Roy’s Art Fair unique to other art fairs?

The atmosphere, accessibility of the art on display, and the bond between artist and organiser.

Roy’s Art Fair will be at Truman Brewery from 3rd – 6th October.