If the past two years have been a slow recovery, followed by a full-scale return to pre-pandemic art programs, this May’s string of art fairs epitomizes something of a spring frenzy. Here are our favorite guides by region.
upper east side
Tefaf
Known for its expertise in art history, antiques and design, the European Art Foundation (TEFAF) travels from Holland to Manhattan every year. Focusing on modern and contemporary art and design, the fair returns for its 8th annual New York edition at Park His Avenue His Armory. Single admission tickets are $55 ($25 for students). Multi-day admission tickets are $75. At the Park Avenue Armory, 643 Park Avenue, Manhattan, May 12-16. Tefaf.com.
american art fair
Focused on American 19th- and 20th-century works, the fair returns for its 16th year with more than 400 landscapes, portraits, still lifes and sculptures by 17 exhibitors. Admission is free. May 13-16, Bohemian National Hall, 321 East 73rd Street, Manhattan. americanartfair.com.
midtown west
Freeze New York 2023
Frieze, one of the world’s largest, most expensive and most inaccessible trade fairs, returns to the Hudson Yards Shed this year. Over 65 galleries celebrate New York City’s creative spirit. The fair’s ‘Focus’ section will also be revived, featuring solo presentations by galleries within the last 12 years of operation. Tickets are selling fast and many tiers are already sold out. Admission to the Friday preview is $129 per person. At The Shed, 545 West 30th Street, Manhattan, May 17-21. 212-463-7488, Freeze.com.
Chelsea
focus art fair
Focus brings together contemporary works from over 35 galleries. This year’s theme focuses on post-pandemic regeneration and the idea of art as a biosphere. General admission is $30 (students him $15). May 18-21, Chelsea Industrial, 535-549 West 28th Street, Manhattan. Focus Art Fair.net.
Nada
Dedicated to promoting new artistic voices, the New Art Dealers Alliance will showcase work from 88 galleries, art spaces and non-profits, including 31 first-time exhibitors. A day ticket is $55. A multi-day pass is $75. Discounted senior and student tickets are available on-site for $35 upon presentation of ID. May 18-21 at 548 West, 548 West 22nd Street, Manhattan. 212-594-0883, newartdealers.org.
future fair
Focusing on small art galleries and emerging and under-the-radar players, the fair returns to Chelsea for the third time in person and features 57 local, national and international artists. A weekend pass is $70. Daytime general admission, $45. At Chelsea Industrial, 535 West 28th Street, Manhattan, May 10-13. future fair.com.
Clio Art Fair
Self-proclaimed independent artist Antifair Clio returns for its 14th edition. Tickets are free on Fridays from noon to 8pm. Saturday and Sunday general admission tickets start at $12. May 18-21 at 550 West 29th Avenue in Manhattan. CLIO ART FAIR.com.
Volta New York
This year’s Basel-born Volta Art Fair will feature more than 50 national and international galleries, including exhibitors from South Korea, Dublin and Ivory Coast. Tickets are $12 for students and seniors, $38 for general admission, and $48 for private viewings with VIP access and re-entry. May 17-21, at the Metropolitan Pavilion at 125 West 18th Avenue in Manhattan. voltaartfairs.com.
tribeca
independent new york
The independent, modestly sized fair that shines a spotlight on lesser-known and overlooked artists is back in Tribeca. A 1-day ticket is $65 and a 3-day pass is $90. Student and senior tickets are $25. May 11-14 at Spring Studios, 50 Varick Street, Manhattan. independent hq.com.
manhattan building
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
Dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, the fair will feature works by over 80 artists in 26 galleries from Africa, Europe and the United States. This year, 1-54 will move to the Manhattanville factory district in West Harlem. General admission tickets are $20. A three-day ticket is $50. May 18-21 at 439 West 127th Street in Manhattan. 1-54.com.
