ISTANBUL.- Exhibitors at the preview day of the inaugural ArtInternational reported strong interest and solid early sales from Turkish and international buyers and collectors including a range of luminaries from the global art community. Visitors were impressed by a consistently high standard of art on display at the 62 exhibiting galleries at the stunning waterside location of the Haliç Kongre Merkezi. Heralded as a highlight of Istanbul's packed September art week alongside the 13th Istanbul Biennial, ArtInternational is set to become an eagerly anticipated fixture on the international art circuit.

Greg Hilty, Curatorial Director, Lisson Gallery said: 'The fair had tremendous energy on its opening day and we were pleased to welcome existing and prospective clients from Turkey and the wider region. Many had joined us the night before for a tour of Anish Kapoor's exhibition at the Sakip Sabanci Museum, so there was obvious interest in Kapoor - but also Opie, Rana, Martin, Abramovic and indeed the full range of artists we've brought to Istanbul.'

Olivier Belot, General Director, Yvon Lambert, Paris also said: 'The first day of ArtInternational was very encouraging and very good for us. We sold several works, and in addition have a number of further works on reserve. We have great hopes for the future of this fair'.

A leading Turkish newspaper, Zaman, reported: "Until today The Halic Kongre Merkezi has hosted plenty of important events, particularly concerts and ceremonies, but this must be the first time all of its theatres, corridors and passageways have been so magnificently filled with art. ArtInternational, the art fair blossoming at the centre has placed an art work in every corner of the venue, including the terrace overlooking the Golden Horn."

Highlights over the next few days include talks with the Delfina Foundation, Collector Space, Spot, Sothebys and Mixer, as well as a number of special artist events and projects. To book tickets and for further information see www.artinternational13.com