This weekend's Affordable Art and Artisan Markets at Wollongong Art Gallery will offer people the rare opportunity to walk into a gallery and buy something straight off the wall.

Almost 50 artists and 30 artisans will exhibit their work on Saturday and Sunday, and everything is for sale.

The November 1-2 event is the brainchild of Wollongong Art Gallery Friends, whose vice-president Sheldri Weston will officially open the markets this Friday from 6pm, for a 6.30pm start.

The markets, in their fourth year of operation, are a major fund-raiser for the Wollongong Art Gallery Friends, a group of art advocates who raise funds to support gallery programs.

"This is the fourth year we've run the markets. We invite artists to sell their art. We also have artisans selling their wares," Ms Weston said.

"It is a fantastic event. We take a small percentage from everything sold to raise funds for the gallery to purchase more art."

If last year is any guide, upwards of 3000 people are expected to drop by the gallery to purchase paintings, sculpture, prints and a variety of handcrafted, locally made goods.

"As the name implies, pretty much all the art is sold at very affordable prices. You are sure to pick up a bargain," Ms Weston said.

Entry is free, with live music and a pop-up cafe also open selling coffee and muffins.

The Affordable Art and Artisan Markets runs from 10am-4pm on Saturday and Sunday.