SINGAPORE.-Sold out by early 2005, all 65 booths were snapped up by 50 galleries participating in ARTSINGAPORE this year; the highest take up ever since the annual contemporary Asian Art Fair first started 5 years ago. Organised by ArtReach Pte Ltd, ARTSINGAPORE is the biggest and main visual Asian Contemporary Art fair in Singapore and will be held at Suntec Singapore Hall 402, Level 4 from the 29 September - 3 October 05. The overwhelming response and participation from both repeat and new galleries from all over the world is a strong show that Singapore is well-poised as an arts hub and on the cusp of becoming the region’s most popular destination for the art trade.

Last year, 41 galleries from 14 countries took part and saw about 12,000 visitors through its doors. The exponential growth shows an emergent market of rich and affluent art connoisseurs in the region that the fair appeals to. In responding to this trend, the participating galleries are testament to the efficacies of the fair in drawing the right crowd.

Owner Renuka Khilnani of Bodhi Art cites, "Our reasons for joining the Art Singapore 2005 are mainly because we would like to introduce the gallery to a wider, pan Asian audience and feel this forum is an excellent one both in terms of profile of visitors, collectors and other galleries participating in the Fair."

"We think Singapore is one of our best arts market, so we want to showcase the best paintings and the best artists in Vietnam. We want Singapore receive the best paintings in Vietnam and familiarise themselves with the best artists in Vietnam." Says Le Trung Thanh, Director of Ngan Pho Gallery.

The 5th installation of the Art Fair returns with much aplomb this year to Suntec Singapore, Level 4 Hall 402 from 29 September to 3rd October with bigger features, larger names and more exciting works; including a special installation by top avant-garde artiste Yayoi Kusama and her original paintings and prints. Visitors can also expect to see artworks from some big name artists like Zao Wou Ki, Ahmad Zakii Anwar, Chua Ek Kay, Donal Sultan, F. N. Souza, Min Wae Aung, Russel Wong, Wu Guan Zhong and Natee Utarit. ARTSingapore 2005 is expected to draw over 15,000 visitors and $3 million sales turnover.

MeesPierson The Private Bankers of Fortis is a sponsor of ARTSingapore. Marina Mandarin is the Official Hotel. Global Specialised Services is appointed the Official Freight Forwarder. Singapore Tourism Board, and The National Arts Council support ARTSingapore.