Come by the upscale district surrounding Aoyama and Omotesando to catch a glimpse at the works of young, contemporary artists who will display their creations in various boutiques and galleries.

If the first words that come to mind when you think of Aoyama and Omotesando are ‘posh’, ‘luxurious’ or ‘swanky”, Aosando Art Fair will make you change your mind. Forget luxury brands and high-end designer flagship stores: affordable, accessible yet high quality items are at the heart of the concept of Aosando Art Fair.

The annual event started up back in 2007 to encourage up-and-coming artists to display their designs and to present retail places as not only mere shops, but more art spaces. A combination of over 50 shops are involved, from the famous to the more obscure – think Louis Vuitton, Shu Uemura, L’Artisan Parfumeur, but also Diletts & Snobs and Wut Berlin- are participating, along with a handful of art galleries.

Head over to take a peek inside each space and browse through chunky knits to fill up your wardrobe with winter staples, or to decorate your home with some fine art pieces. If you’re looking to buy art but shy away from the pricey galleries, Aosando may be the best opportunity to buy a first piece for your collection.

Aosando Art Fair 2012 (in Japanese)

When: Oct. 24-Nov. 4

Where: The streets surrounding Omotesando and Aoyama (see map here)


text by Vivian Morelli