MELBOURNE.- After four days of dynamic programming and cultural engagement, the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair 2025 has successfully wrapped, reaffirming its status as Australasia’s leading forum for contemporary art and ideas. With more than 100 artists on display from over 70 galleries and indigenous owned art centres, the Fair saw an estimated AUD $14.1m in sales, with increased transactions among young galleries and early-career artists, highlighting the growing appetite for emerging talent.

With 17,164 visitors to the sprawling 9,000 square metre space at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, attendance surged by 14% compared to 2024, demonstrating a strong demand for contemporary art among collectors and the wider public.

Fair Director Melissa Loughnan says: “The 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair was a huge success, both across sales and visitation, proving that the industry can support our now-annual model. An estimated 20% of booths recorded sellout or near-sellout exhibitions, cementing the Fair as a premier commercial showcase for contemporary art. This years attendance figures really show the clear appetite for contemporary art and arts experiences by a culturally-savvy public.”

Works of note that sold at the fair were Reko Rennie’s Untitled totem for AUD $180,000 with Amez Yavuz, an $80,000 Tracey Moffatt with Roslyn Oxley Gallery and a $65,000 John Wolseley with Australian Galleries.

Beyond Melbourne Art Fair’s physical iteration, presenting galleries and art centres will remain online via MAF VIRTUAL until 7 March 2025, connecting artists with a global network of collectors, advisors, curators and enthusiasts, and continuing to drive artwork sales well after the Fair.

Participating galleries from this year’s edition shared their enthusiasm over Melbourne Art Fair 2025:“It started on a high note with Hannah Gartside winning The Richard Parker Award. Day after day we saw visitors captivated by her sculptures. It quickly became apparent that ‘Bunnies in Love, Lust and Longing’ was that rare thing: an artistic and financial success. MAF captured an audience that was curious and engaged. It reminded me of how much we all value looking at art and meeting artists. And why I do what I do.” Jan Minchin, Director, Tolarno Galleries

“Importantly, in this time of online exhibitions, many new clients for us enjoyed the excitement of viewing new artworks and meeting our artists in person. The fair was brimming with energy, attracting a new art audience.” Alcaston Gallery

“As a remote Indigenous Art Centre, we couldn’t do the important work we do without the support of our friends at Melbourne Art Fair.” Moa Arts

“Ames Yavuz is delighted with our presentation at the 2025 Melbourne Art Fair. It was received brilliantly for both artists with the works going to national and state institutions, as well as significant private collections.” Owen Craven, Director, Ames Yavuz

Looking ahead to the next edition, the Melbourne Art Foundation is delighted to announce its partnership with ACMI and Artbank for the 2026 commission. The $60,000 initiative will support an Australian artist or group to break new ground in screen practice through the creation of a moving image work. The resulting commission will premiere at the 2026 Melbourne Art Fair and receive a dedicated exhibition at ACMI, before being acquired by both the Artbank and ACMI collections.