Antiques Faire delights shoppers and collectors

The 2010 Faire recently took place at the Sandton International Convention Centre. The infrastructure for the show was supplied by Oasys Innovations.

Antiques are a more secure way of investing, as the value of arts, antiques and collectables have, over the past few decades, mostly appreciated or at least remained consistent. Experts predict that there will be value increases in the market, as it has become an alternative investment due to recent economic instability.

Says Carl Woodland, Chief Operating Officer for Oasys Exhibitions: "This is a very interesting show to be involved with, due to the wide range of collectables of value on show. We supplied 858m2 of package stands, which includes walling, carpeting and electrical infrastructures, rigging of the exhibitors' chandeliers, draping in the cocktail area and all furniture."

The event was hosted by the National Antiques and Decorative Arts group (NAADA), which came into existence with the first fair in 1999. The body regulates all participants to the fair according to a strict code of practice and encourages national, as well as international participation. The Faire was opened with a gala evening which was attended by the 'who's who' of the collecting world. The fair also aligns itself with the global 'antiques are green' movement, encouraging investment in antiques as a way of recycling.

Says Clyde Terry, Managing Director of NAADA: "The faire provides collectors with a platform to view items from many different dealers under one roof. These range from furniture, glass and silverware, to antique books from various countries around the world and interesting places in South Africa."

Apart for the annual faire, there are also monthly fairs held at the Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, on the first Sunday of each month.