The Papier 11 Contemporary art fair kicked off last night with a VIP Benefit Soirée which filled the tent on the Place des Festivals to capacity. Now in its fourth year, the event has out-grown the Black Watch Armoury and the AGAC, organizers of the fair, have erected a massive solid tent in the Quartier des Spectacles, right on the corner of Bleury and De Maisonneuve. Finally the visual arts are taking centre-stage!

On offer are the works of over 400 artists, represented by 38 galleries from Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia. All works are on paper, but run the gamut from print, collage, e-zines, drawing, painting, even sculpture. The advantage of art on paper is its price: for the budding art collector works on paper are more affordable than, say, works on canvas or a bronze cast. So the organizers – and the galleries – are hoping to tempt more art-lovers to take the plunge and buy their first major artwork.

If the choices on offer seem overwhelming, you may want to sign up for one of the hourly guided tours, and I strongly recommend that you get your hands on the Papier 11 catalogue which is more of a “written audio guide” than a standard catalogue.

For those who’d like a sneak peek into the Papier 11 tent, check out the video below which was shot during last night’s VIP opening.

Art fair opening hours
Friday, April 15, 2011: 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 16, 2011: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, April 17, 2011: Sunday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

free admission

Place des Festivals
Quartier des Spectacles
corner Bleury and De Maisonneuve