This September, visitors to the Affordable Art Fair will discover an exciting new addition: the FIT Prize Wall, a playful and interactive project created by graduate students in the Art Market Studies program at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). The project blends education, creativity, and audience engagement, offering fairgoers a chance to participate in a fun game while supporting research on visitor experiences.

The concept is simple yet innovative. Guests who stop by the FIT Prize Wall booth will be invited to scan a QR code and complete a short survey. In return, they will receive a chance to choose a box from the Prize Wall. Some lucky participants will win exclusive prizes such as the FIT × Affordable Art Fair limited-edition tote bags and notebooks, as well as a special highlight: the Bella blind box figure series created by artist Yuqian Fan, an FIT alumna. Featuring twelve collectible characters that combine fashion-inspired aesthetics with playful storytelling, the Bella series brings an element of surprise and collectability that perfectly complements the Prize Wall’s interactive spirit.

The project was coordinated by FIT Art Market Studies students Artemis Wu and Rita Gao, in collaboration with Affordable Art Fair organizers and faculty advisors at FIT. Their goal was to design an installation that reflects both the Fair’s mission of accessibility and FIT’s commitment to innovation. “We wanted to create something that’s not just visually engaging but also builds a bridge between visitors and the Fair,” says Wu.

As the art world continues to seek new ways of connecting with broader audiences, the FIT Prize Wall demonstrates the power of interactivity. It transforms a simple survey into a shared moment of joy, while positioning FIT students as emerging leaders in the cultural sector.

The FIT Prize Wall will be featured at the Affordable Art Fair from September 17 to 21. Visitors are warmly invited to stop by, play, and perhaps leave with both a prize and a new perspective on how art fairs can engage the public.