Mark your calendar. Nestled in the heart of East Hampton, you’ll find an art showcase like no other. Featuring a collection of esteemed exhibitors, the lively art walk along Newton Lane allows visitors to discover a plethora of masterpieces. Marvel at impressive life-size sculptures, study the intricate detail of handmade jewelry, or daydream while gazing at a vivid abstract painting. A visual feast awaits.      

The Hamptons have become a haven for affluent celebrities and New Yorkers who wish to spend their summers relaxing and fine dining, about 100 miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. East Hampton, with its manicured lawns, tranquil atmosphere, and historic charm, is considered one of the area’s most prestigious communities. Additionally, the area benefits from an abundance of artistic talent and is hosting the East Hampton Art Affair at Herrick Park. This free, two-day event showcases art across all media from both local and national fine artists. 

The art scene in the Hamptons dates as far back as the late 19th century when American Impressionists who were attracted by the island’s stunning landscapes set up studios out east to work in. And then in the 20th century, notable artists from the New York School traveled east during the summertime to establish homes and studios around the Hamptons. Previous locals of East Hampton include the legendary painters Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner. Today, you can enjoy a selection of fine art museums and galleries dotted around the Hamptons area. The most famous one is the Parrish Art Museum, which showcases more than 3,000 works of art from a wide range of artists.    

At the East Hampton art show, you can expect to see an unparalleled exhibition of art from 75 artists, including everything from modern art to more rustic pieces. Visitors are invited to wander among the incredible paintings, life-size sculptures, handmade jewelry, photography, ceramics, mixed media pieces, and more. The event features artists of all ages, from all over the United States. Some are just beginning their careers and others have been creating art for years. It’s a great opportunity for artists to meet and interact with new clients. The outdoor showcase is buzzing with excitement, creative energy, and admiration as people peruse the various works of art and chat with the artists who created them.   

The coastal landscape of the Hamptons is a major inspiration for local artists exhibiting at the East Hampton Art Affair. Annie Sessler, from Montauk, is a mixed media artist who uses local sea life to make original gyotaku (fish printing) works. John Mutch, a Hampton Bays jewelry artist, channels his passion for the ocean into the creation of wearable art with natural marine embellishments. Jonathan Spector is an award-winning Lynbrook surf photographer who takes photos while swimming in the water, to capture the perfect way light dances with waves.     

Attendance of the East Hampton Art Affair is free; however, visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to the event. The prestigious fine art showcase, presented by the Rotary Club of East Hampton, includes a food drive that benefits the town’s food bank, the East Hampton Food Pantry. The East Hampton Rotary fundraises to support local organizations including The Retreat, Food Pantry, Meals on Wheels, and Southampton Hospital. This is an art fair that gives back to the community, and you can rest assured that your attendance will make a tangible difference.    

Without the joy of art to drench our lives with color and fill our minds with inspiration, we would be trapped in an incredibly gray, drab, and mundane existence. The East Hampton Art Affair offers creative souls the chance to celebrate beautiful artworks, learn from each other, and become energized by the surrounding coastal landscape. It is an artistic showcase of the highest caliber, and one not to be missed.