High-powered art fairs like Art Basel, Frieze and TEFAF (all now produced in multiple international locations) tend to be rarefied affairs, with lots of high-level networking, fancy parties, and art sales in the multi-multi-millions. But the fittingly named Affordable Art Fair, launched by Will Ramsay in London's Battersea Park in 1999, is for absolutely everybody - especially those who might actually feel a bit intimidated by those others.

A truly impressive global success, AAF now boasts three annual London editions, as well as six European fairs, two in Asia, three in Australia, and in America, Austin, Boston, Spring NYC and Fall NYC.

Notably, this year's Spring New York edition - March 18 - 22 at the Historic Starrett-Lehigh Building, located in the city's Chelsea neighborhood - will again be stepping up its efforts in regards to family programing (book tickets here for Sunday Family Hours, sponsored by The Babysitting Company), surely recognizing that not only can it be a fun day out in the city, but it can also be an enlightening learning experience for little ones who are still finding their own creative voice. Kids tend to absorb everything around them, so the buzz of being surrounded by all that creativity can do wonders for inspiring their always piqued curiosity.

To get a little more insight into AAF's commitment to nurturing a new generation of young art lovers, we caught up with NYC Fair Director Erin Schuppert, whose enthusiasm is truly contagious.

With the contemporary art world arguably becoming ever more lofty, what is most important about the Affordable Art Fair ethos?

Our mission is to make browsing and collecting art accessible for all. We focus on accessibility by setting a price ceiling, requiring all artworks to be accompanied by transparent labels, and curating a diverse selection of galleries presenting all kinds of artwork styles. Perhaps what makes us truly unique though, is our focus on joy; experiencing contemporary art should be fun, and we prioritize that by creating an environment that feels welcoming and friendly for the whole family, whether you are new to the art world or are seasoned collectors.

At the New York editions of AAF, have you noticed specifically that the attendance of families and kids has been growing?

Yes! In fact, last September at our Fall edition, we saw the attendance at our Family Hours event on Sunday double compared to the previous year. It’s always incredible to see families come out to the fair and observe what catches the eye of the little art lovers.

What can kids take away from the Affordable Art Fair that can help them cultivate their own creativity at home and at school?

Affordable Art Fair offers kids - and grown ups! - the opportunity to see tons of different art styles under one roof. There are 90 exhibitors from all over the world, presenting over 650 living artists; so it’s the perfect way to learn more about your tastes or interests. Make sure to ask questions and chat with the gallerists and artists about their work to learn more [about them].

What are some of the highlights in regards to family activities at the Spring 2026 AAF?

On Sunday from 10am to 2pm we host Family Hours with our partner, The Babysitting Company. Kids can make their own arts and crafts, play some games, or take a break at story time. Short and sweet programs will happen at 11am, 12pm, and 1pm, with ongoing coloring and block building all day.

What would you recommend to parents who want to set aside more creative time with their kids at home?

I know that personally for me, making art or crafting can be intimidating; that’s why I am a curator and event organizer, and not an artist! So if that’s true for you and maybe for your family, start by making time dedicated to looking at and speaking with one another about art. I find that just as valuable as creating it. I have very fond memories of my parents taking me to the local museum when I was a kid and asking me questions, prompting me to look closer, and challenging me to form opinions about what I was seeing. Ultimately, I think that made me fall in love with art and led to what I am doing now.

(Visit the Affordable Art Fair YouTube channel for engaging, enlightening videos on how to buy art, how to talk about art, and even how to decorate your home with art. And don't forget to check out the tigernoodles story Where Does Artistic Inspiration Come From, for tips on helping your kids get inspired by art.)