Frequently Asked Questions

  • The fair will run from 7–9 August 2026 at Hilton College, alongside the Hilton Arts Festival. A VIP preview will take place on the evening of Thursday, 6 August.

    What are the opening times?

    • VIP Preview (Thursday): 18:00 – 21:00

    • Friday: 09:00 – 18:00

    • Saturday & Sunday: 09:00 – 18:00

    How much is entry to the fair?

    • Adults: R100

    • Students & pensioners: R50

  • Applications are open to:

    • Galleries

    • Curators

    • Artist collectives

    We encourage collaboration. Independent artists are advised to apply as part of a collective or with a curator.

  • The fair follows a gallery/curatorial model, so individual applications are limited. Artists are encouraged to collaborate with others or work with a curator.

  • No. The fair is national (and growing internationally), and participants can be based anywhere.

  • Applications should be submitted as soon as possible, ideally by the end of April, as selections are being reviewed in early May.

  • Applicants will be notified 10-15 May.

  • Yes. If you submit an updated version, the most recent application will be reviewed.

  • You must include a link to images of your work (e.g. website, Instagram, Google Drive, or PDF upload). Applications without visuals cannot be assessed.

    • Main Hall: R3,450 per m²

    • Buzz Room: R2,950 per m²

    The Buzz Room offers more affordable options for collectives, emerging galleries, and educational initiatives. The price of the booth depends on which space you exhibit in and the size of your booth.

    • Height: 2.7m

    • 100mm Solid walls (not temporary expo-style structures)

    • Suitable for hanging large and heavy works

  • No. There is no cap on artwork prices and pricing is at the discretion of the gallery / collective / curator. It is advised to adhere to prices that reflect the artist’s sales records and current value in the market.

  • No. All sales are handled directly by exhibitors.

  • Payments are split into two parts:

    • Deposit (50%): Due 6 June (non-refundable)

    • Final payment (50%): Due 6 July

    Can I withdraw after being accepted?
    Yes, but only before the deposit deadline (6 June).


    • Early access: Likely from Tuesday, 4 August

    • Installation: Wednesday–Thursday, 5–6 August

    • Completion deadline: Thursday, 6 August at 11:00

    Breakdown takes place on Monday, 10 August (public holiday).

  • Yes. Secure storage will be available, with on-site security throughout the fair. This must be applied for in advance.

  • Yes. The fair includes:

    • On-site security personnel

    • Controlled access points

    • Supervised storage areas

  • Yes. The fair includes:

    • Panel discussions and talks

    • Walkabouts

    • Book launches

    • Workshops and professional practice sessions

  • A call for proposals and papers will be released in mid-May. You can also email the team to express interest.

  • Yes. Schools will be invited to attend:

    • A walkabout of the fair

    • A talk / panel discussion

    • Artist-led workshops

  • Yes. The fair has partnered with local networks (including the Midlands Meander) to help visitors find accommodation. Early booking is strongly recommended. See the Friends of the Fair tab on our website.

  • Yes. A dedicated design section will showcase leading design from KZN.

  • Yes, and there will be no parking fee for the Hilton Arts Festival this year.

  • This is being explored and depends on sponsorship. Updates will be shared.