London’s Frieze-ing. Warm up for the big event with our alternative guide to the contemporary art scene.

SEE
Kounter Kulture
What: Edgy new art fair introduces new names and styles from around the world.
Why: It’s got art and soul.
When: Today-Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: T3 & T4, Truman Brewery, 146 Brick Ln., E1 6QL (020 7749 6853).

DesignArt London
What: Upmarket gathering showcases post-war furniture designs and modern art from 30 galleries.
Why: Show and sell.
When: Today-Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Berkeley Sq., W1J 6EN (020 7436 6082).

Annie Leibovitz: a Photographer’s Life 1990-2005
What: New exhibition documents the celebrated photographer’s personal life against the backdrop of her public work.
Why: Every picture tells a story.
When: Today-1 Feb. Sun.-Wed. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
Where: National Portrait Gallery, St. Martin’s Pl., WC2H 0HE (020 7312 2463).

The Future Can Wait
What: Multidisciplinary museum-scale show presents rising talent in painting, drawing, video, sculpture, performance and installation.
Why: It’s state of the art.
When: Today-Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: T1, Old Truman Brewery, 81 Brick Ln., E1 6QL (020 7770 6000).

Zoo Art Fair
What: Emerging contemporary market exhibits work from more than fifteen countries.
Why: Got a hang-up?
When: Fri.-20 Oct. Fri.-Sun., noon-8 p.m.; Mon., noon-5 p.m.
Where: Royal Academy of Arts, 6 Burlington Gdns., W1S 3EX (020 7247 8597).