The first-ever Reading Contemporary Art Fair took place last weekend, 23-25 April 2010, and I was one of approximately 80 artists who exhibited. Although I have frequently exhibited my work over the past few years, it was the first time I had participated in a large art fair. And I had a fantastic time!

I think that the organisers, who also run the successful Windsor Contemporary Art Fair, now in its sixth year, did a great job on this first Reading Fair. There was a superbe variety of high quality art and the layout of the fair was spacious and looked very professional.

Actually, I think I could become addicted to doing art fairs! I already have four planned for this year, and am contemplating participating in a fifth (see my upcoming art exhibitions). These fairs are a great way to share my work with a wider audience of art lovers and collectors and to get feedback and reaction direct from them. And I am in the fortunate position of having sold several of my vibrant abstract paintings during the Reading Fair, with four commissions on the cards too. And who knows what will come during the aftermath of the fair…

I was quite overwhelmed by the amazing reaction to my work and the way that it mesmerised many visitors. This has given me even more motivation and excitement to create new paintings.

And I was delighted to meet Mr & Mrs Lees who quickly snapped up the canvas below that I had produced for The Princes Trust charity art sale.

Another bonus of doing this fair is that I met some lovely new artist friends and had some great moments and laughs with my neighbours on surrounding stands.

I want to finish this post by thanking everyone who: came to the event to support me; took the time to view my work and give me feedback; bought my paintings; plans to purchase my work in the future; gave me great advice; and made me laugh!

Here is a video with a few images from the Reading Contemporary Art Fair, which I hope you will enjoy:

Feel free to leave your comments below.