Perhaps because works on paper have traditionally been called ‘minor works’, the 21st rendering of the ‘Works on Paper’ art show in New York City might make a major mark. The reference of ‘minor works’ refers to a comparison to oils on canvas which usually steal the limelight and the wall space in galleries, mostly for economic reasons. However, as curators can tell you, that ‘minor’ tag mostly relates to the price tag, rather than the artistic quality of the artwork itself.
So, given the more affordable nature of works on paper, this weekend with a America’s new presidential optimism, but with continued economic pressures, there should be good interest at the fair, which will be held at the Park Avenue Armory.
Origins of the ‘Works on Paper’ Art Fair
In 1988, art and antiques fair producer Sanford Smith noticed a trend, “Almost every gallery I visited had a closet full of works on paper; drawings, prints, watercolors…Works that could not compete with more expensive artworks for wall space.”
Inspired by this often overlooked art, Smith invited a selection of the finest international dealers to open their closets at Works on Paper–giving art on paper the spotlight for a weekend. When it began, no other show in the world covered such a range of material, and 21 years later, Works on Paper is still the finest show of its kind.
A stellar roster of galleries from around the world will bring together their finest drawings, prints, watercolors, photography, architectural renderings, illustrated books, and posters for exhibition and sale. Reflecting the show’s own evolution and the development of the art on paper market over the years, the material will span from old master to contemporary works.
This Weekend’s Roster of Exhibiting Art Dealers and Galleries
Many dealers are returning to Works on Paper this year, including some international galleries, such as:
- Hill-Stone (New York) with old master and modern prints and drawings;
- Peter Fetterman Gallery (Santa Monica, CA) with fine art photography;
- Jane Roberts Fine Arts (Paris) exhibiting a broad spectrum of mainly French works;
- Hirschl & Adler Galleries (New York) with American master works;
- Gary Bruder Fine Art will bring Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Toulouse Lautrec;
- Jean Paul Perrier Fine Art Gallery (Barcelona) will bring artwork by Picasso, Mirò, Remedios Varò, Botero and others;
- Jerald Melberg Gallery (Charlotte, NC) featuring works by James Rosati;
- Babcock Galleries (New York) with a selection of American art of all periods;
- Sims Reed (London) highlighting a complete portfolio of ten etchings by Peter Doig;
- Mark J. Weinbaum Fine Posters and Prints (New York);
- William Weston Gallery (London) with 20th century European master prints; and
- Bernard Goldberg Fine Arts (New York) with American watercolors and drawings of the early twentieth century.
Art Show Preview & Benefit Auction
The array of first-rate exhibits will first open to the public at the benefit preview TODAY, February 26 from 6pm to 9pm. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Citizens’ Committee for Children of New York. The CCC has just announced artist and filmmaker Julian Schnabel as the Honorary Chair for this event.
Preview tickets can be purchased at the door as well as online at www.cccnewyork.org.
The 2009 Works On Paper Benefit Preview includes a Silent Auction, and there are some interesting works by well-known artists such as an etching by Alice Trumbull Mason, a serigraph by Judy Chicago and two photographic works by Joan Roth. There are also some smaller prizes to be had. Bidding takes place during the Benefit Preview on February 26th and ends at 9:25 that evening. Works will be on display in the entryway of the exhibit area.
Art Fair Admission Details
Admission to Works on Paper is $20 and includes a catalog. Two-day passes are available for $30. Refreshments will be available at the café. Call 212.777.5218 or email sugar@sanfordsmith.com with questions, to make arrangements for wheelchair access or to inquire about student and group rates.
Works on Paper runs from February 27 through March 2, 2009 at the Park Avenue Armory at 67th Street in NYC. Hours are Friday noon – 8pm, Saturday and Sunday noon – 7pm, and Monday 11am – 5pm.
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