THE Joburg Art Fair is back and this year it is better and bigger.

THE Joburg Art Fair is back and this year it is better and bigger.

Presented by First National Bank, the third annual Joburg Art Fair takes place from March 26 to 29 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

Dubbed the biggest art event in Africa, the fair will attract thousands of art lovers to the city of gold as is normally the case. Art lovers will be treated to an exclusive collection of art works - from antiques to contemporary sculptures from famous art dealers all over the world.

A new range of special projects, inspired by the convergence of art and industry, will showcase work commissioned by Grolsch, St Leger and Viney and Pirelli. This year about 21 galleries will take up the 5000sqmetres when it showcases the best African art.

Since its inception in 2007 the fair has done well, attracting the best artists to the event. It is becoming the place to buy, sell and view contemporary art from Africa.

Locally the event has gained much momentum over the last two years and internationally it is the largest platform on the continent for meeting artists, curators, galleries and buyers.

It is a fact that the success of an art fair is all about sustainability and building a brand over time. Art fairs are about the business of art and combines art and lifestyle and appeals to people who don't usually go to art galleries.

This concept presents visitors, whether museum or private buyers, with a very special opportunity to view and buy under the strictest vetting conditions.

The Joburg Art Fair, as well as showcasing the best of African contemporary visual culture, will also host art talks and other fun activities for children.