VOLTA New York

We are slightly modifying the DNA of the New York fair, presently, from its original solo project format to one that can support multi-artist presentations within precise curatorial direction from their galleries. For us, New York and Basel have always been about the discovery of Talent, whether that artist is emerging or mid career, and then showcasing that Talent to a serious audience.

Galleries are chosen via a careful selection process, based on the artist programs and country of origin of the gallery. The relationship of the artist and their gallery is taken very seriously into account, via history of solo exhibitions, publishing of catalogues, grants and residencies, museum shows etc — for this is an indication of the true and lasting support that gallery has for its artists. We have a long history of working with “Mother Galleries”, those who nurture their represented artists’ careers over a vast trajectory, rather than galleries who simply pick up the hottest market trends, sell them for a few years, then drop them for the next, newest, hottest iteration.

Prices range from an achievable entry point for first-time buyers — say, $1,200 for a unique drawing — up to the upper five figures for a statement work that could live quite comfortably in a museum or significant private collection. Buyers embody the spectrum of the nascent and emerging philanthropists to seasoned patron collectors who spend hours and six figures across multiple exhibitor booths.

VOLTA New York attracts art lovers and those seeking to discovery something and someone new. Rather than spectacle, she or he is looking to learn, to immerse in that artist’s practice, and quite possible to buy and embark upon their own relationship with the artist.

From my perspective as Fair Director, I think its our galleries and their commitment to their artists and these special presentations at the fair, which, nine times out of ten, embody the exhibition style as at their own gallery spaces. Though what I hear from our galleries, is it is the VOLTA team and our accessibility, professionalism, and friendliness that makes the fair such a smoothly running event. Hopefully visitors experience this as well: our commitment, coupled with that of our exhibitors, to host a fair that is accessible and engaging.

In terms of New York fairs, I suggest Independent in March for its significant curatorial rigor and thrill of discovery, plus a new fair to the calendar, Future, which will happen in May and features leadership by two alumni, one from the VOLTA team and the other a former exhibitor. Their mission of collaboration, equitability, and sustainability for participating galleries is smart and prescient, and I look forward to experiencing Future for myself.