Budget buyer's art mart

Buying artworks for the household is often perceived as a rich man's preserve. The Fourth Affordable Art Beijing (AAB) will be held at The Orange on May 30-31 for art lovers who may not be that well-heeled.

AAB was founded in 2006. It caught the attention of art connoisseurs in no time, being a forum for buyers of contemporary art as well as that of young artists to showcase their talent. The event is a good place to pick up one's very first art objects at a reasonable price, and gradually work toward building a collection. This year the price range of articles range from 8,000 to 10,000 yuan ($1,174-1,467).

Famous local artist Luo Wei's photo series Amusement Park is on show. Usually amusement parks are noisy, crowded, and cheerful but one sees none of that in Luo's photos. These are fraught with loneliness.

"Each year we are surprised and impressed by the number of people joining this wonderful event, whether they come to buy art or simply to enjoy the atmosphere," says the founder Tom Pattinson.

Today the demand for affordable art is stronger, as buyers want to ensure their money goes as far as possible. And AAB keeps adding yet more colors to the scenario.

May 30-31

The Orange, The Village at Sanlitun, Chaoyang district