ART lovers will flock to admire 'some of the world's most exciting contemporary art' at the fifth Oxford International Art Fair.

The free event, which runs this year February 23 - 25, aims to bring together 'the most innovative new work from established and emerging artists and galleries'.

Framed by the 'magnificent' 19th century Oxford Town Hall the show will feature an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, illustrations, photographs, ceramics and jewellery.

Much of it will be presented, for sale or just to admire, by the artists themselves.

Novice and seasoned art collectors will be able to peruse collections, talk to the artists and even get pieces specially commissioned.

Fair organiser Joëlle Dinnage said: "This bustling art fair gives art collectors and enthusiasts a great opportunity to get their hands on art, buying directly from the artist who has travelled all the way to Oxford to show and sell their unique pieces."

The art on show over the weekend will have travelled from more than 26 countries and will include a 'sizeable' collection from the UK.

Ms Dinnage, who curates the event with business partner Natal Vallvé from The Global Art Agency, went on: "We've carefully selected the artists and galleries showing their work, so that only the most innovative and thought-provoking contemporary art is shown at the fair.

"Exclusive events like the VIP sneak preview on the opening night and the chance to vote for the best work on show add up to make this a really special experience for the visitor and indeed the exhibitor."

Highlights this year will include Taiwanese artist and lifestyle blogger Han-Sheng Huang, UK portrait artists James Earley and London painter Edward Ofosu.

Oxford's own watercolour abstract artist Jenny Boden will be showing off her messy hallucinations of the dreaming spires.

Bulgarian artist Radi Nedelchev, meanwhile, will be exhibiting his paintings in the 'naïve art' style.

Ms Dinnage added: "With the beautiful town hall making up the backdrop to the event, it really is a fantastic chance to witness some of the most impressive art close up, meet the artists behind it and enjoy a truly inspirational day out."

The fifth Oxford International Art Fair will takes place from 6pm to 9pm on Friday, February 23, and 11am to 5pm on the Saturday and Sunday.

The weekend days are free, but tickets for the exclusive art fair preview, which takes place from 6pm to 9pm on Friday, February 23, cost £10 to include a glass of champagne and live music, and are available in advance from oxfordinternationalartfair.com/tickets