The upcoming edition of the International Fine Print Dealers Association (IFPDA) Print Fair is set to take place at the Park Avenue Armory in the Upper East Side, marking its return to the venue after a five-year residency at the Javits Center. The fair, which will run from February 15-18, has also made a significant date change, as the 2023 edition was traditionally held in October. This article will analyze the key points of the text and discuss potential future trends in the industry.
One noticeable trend in the IFPDA Print Fair is the inclusion of prominent galleries and publishers. Hauser & Wirth, David Zwirner, Galerie Lelong & Co., and Rosenberg & Co. are among the exhibitors lined up for the event. In addition to galleries, publishers like Two Palms, Tandem Press, and Mixografia will also participate. This demonstrates a strong collaboration between galleries and publishers to showcase printmaking as a significant artistic medium.
Another trend highlighted in the article is the introduction of a new section called Spotlight. This section will feature five large-scale solo presentations, including artists Richard Smith, Howard Hodgkin, Richard Dupont, Wood & Harrison, and Chitra Ganesh. This specific focus on solo presentations allows artists to showcase their works in a more immersive and impactful way. It provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the artist’s practice and allows for a more personal connection with the artwork.
Additionally, the involvement of artist Leonardo Drew adds another dimension to the fair. A presentation curated by Drew, selected from the holdings of ARTnews Top 200 Collector Jordan Schnitzer and his family foundation, will provide a different perspective on collecting and exhibiting prints. This collaboration between an artist and a collector showcases the growing importance of curatorial expertise and highlights underrepresented artists and works.
Considering these trends and analyzing the current state of the print market, several predictions can be made for the future. Firstly, there will likely be a continued emphasis on collaborations between galleries, publishers, and artists. This partnership allows for a broader reach and a more comprehensive representation of the printmaking field. Moreover, it enhances the visibility of printmaking as a significant part of the contemporary art market.
Additionally, the inclusion of solo presentations in the Spotlight section demonstrates a growing interest in deeper engagement with an artist’s work. This trend may lead to more curated exhibitions and presentations within fairs, fostering a more intimate and immersive experience for visitors. Furthermore, this approach may encourage more collectors to invest in prints as standalone artworks, rather than solely focusing on larger works.
Another potential future trend is the rise of alternative venues and date changes for art fairs. The relocation of the IFPDA Print Fair from the Javits Center to the Park Avenue Armory and the date change from October to February indicate a willingness to experiment with new settings and times. This flexibility could be adopted by other art fairs in order to attract new audiences and adapt to changing market demands.
In conclusion, the IFPDA Print Fair is set to return to the Park Avenue Armory with several notable changes, including a significant date change and the introduction of the Spotlight section. The collaboration between galleries, publishers, artists, and collectors is a notable trend within the fair, highlighting the growing importance of printmaking in the contemporary art market. The emphasis on solo presentations and curated exhibitions provides a more immersive experience for visitors and encourages deeper engagement with the artworks. Going forward, it is likely that collaborations, immersive exhibitions, and alternative venues and dates will continue to shape the future of print fairs.