Southern California’s art scene is set to get a dose of independent spirit, complete with mini-golf, a Dolly Parton tribute, and a surprising take on the British Museum. The Other Art Fair, presented by Saatchi Art, returns to Santa Monica's Barker Hangar for its 16th L.A. edition from September 24 to 27, bringing together 160 independent artists from 14 countries.
Nearly half of the exhibiting artists call Los Angeles home, and 63 percent identify as women. The roster spans painters, photographers, mixed-media artists, and printmakers, with works exploring subjects from the sun-drenched landscapes of Palm Springs to vintage airline nostalgia and vibrant figurative paintings. Notable artists exhibiting include Isabel Araneda, Ella Freire, Laura Porcelli, Kiara Aileen Machado, Leticia Lorenzini, and Xan Padron.
This year's fair promises to be more than just a gallery walk. For those who appreciate a good theme, September 25 is dedicated to Dolly Parton Day. A special exhibit, "Self Made Icon: A Life in Rhinestones," will feature a collection of artist tributes, all priced under $500. Expect a DJ spinning Parton's greatest hits, "The Dolly Partini" cocktails at the bar, and a general air of pink celebration.
Perhaps most unexpectedly, the fair is introducing "The Other Open: Artist-Designed Mini Golf." Three female artists have turned a portion of the fair into a playable putt-putt course. Suze Riley’s "WeHo Neon Diver" draws inspiration from the iconic neon diver at West Hollywood Park. Isabel Araneda transforms her dreamy pool paintings into a mid-century landscape through which visitors can play. Heather Bellino’s "The Blooming Vortex" uses organic shapes and a giant sculptural flower to create a colorful, funnel-like course.
For those needing a moment, or perhaps a more reflective art experience, Adam Rose and Richard Hoffman have created "TP Catalog—On Loan from The British Museum." This site-specific installation features gold-framed toilet-paper transfers depicting artifacts that, the artists suggest, may have been acquired by the British Museum itself. Text from the museum’s own database accompanies the images, and a video documenting the British Museum heist plays through viewing holes built into the stall walls.
The fair also spotlights emerging talent through its New Futures program. This year's Fall 2026 recipient is L.A. artist Lisa Tse. A former graphic designer for brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, Paul Frank, and Roxy, Tse now creates vibrant oil and mixed-media paintings that celebrate strength, connection, and joy.
Visitors won't go hungry, with four food trucks on site offering a range of options. The Fair Bar will serve cocktails, wine, beer, and nonalcoholic drinks. On Saturday and Sunday, mu.sō Espresso Bar will be pouring coffee and matcha from a vintage BMW E30.
The Other Art Fair runs from Thursday, September 24, to Sunday, September 27, at Barker Hangar, located at 3021 Airport Ave. in Santa Monica. Opening night on Thursday is from 6pm to 10pm. Friday hours are 5pm to 10pm, Saturday 11am to 7pm, and Sunday 11am to 6pm.
