Philadelphia’s Only Contemporary Fair Returns for an Eagerly Awaited Encore

Philly in 2020 – Contemporary Art Rising

The award-winning, inaugural 2019 first edition made history in Philadelphia. Thousands of avid art lovers poured over the displays presented by 35 select dealers from 19 cities. These notable galleries showcased hundreds of respected artists ranging from hot up-and-comers, and solid mid-career to blue chip masters. While antiques and early American art have been popular genres the past 30 years, the buying trend these days in art is focused on contemporary works. So much the case, that even several leading Philadelphia museums are adding more contemporary shows in their 2020 schedule as well as increasing their contemporary permanent collections.

2019 Recap Video

Art Savvy Fairgoers

The weekend brought in many serious art patrons and established collectors from the greater region, such as The Main Line, Bucks County, Delaware Valley, Delaware County, Chester County, Montgomery County, Lehigh Valley, Berks County and Downtown Philadelphia. It not only attracted hundreds of elite collectors, but those just beginning to build a contemporary art collection as well. Exhibitors were particularly impressed by how knowledgeable and attentive the fairgoers were. Both local and national gallerists were delighted to be introduced to an entirely “fresh crop” of art enthusiasts.

Time to Uncover New Prospects in one of Nation’s Largest Cities

Art Show Philadelphia

Philly is a culturally driven and passionate city with over 6 million residents in the Greater Metro Area. As the second most populous city on the East Coast (and 6th largest in the US), PFAF will generate thousands of new contemporary art enthusiasts and buyers. The 2019 edition proved that this affluent, fast-growing and well-cultured base of residents are eager to discover the joy of collecting contemporary art. Although just two hours from NYC, Philadelphians have their own tastes, aesthetics and design sensibilities that are unique to the region and wish to buy locally.

PFAF Executive Director, Rick Friedman, has stated, “We uncovered an avid collector base in Philadelphia that wanted and responded favorable to a contemporary fair they can call their own. Sales were strong and consistent, between the $3,000 and $30,000 level. We proved there’s a fast-growing interest and newfound demand for contemporary art in Philly. By providing locals an easily accessible opportunity to acquire important contemporary works, our fair is a perfect supplement to the long running Phil. Antiques and Art Show.”

"We have been delighted"

Janet Lehr Gallery presented works by a number of established Modern artists including Thomas Eakins, Perle Fine Man Ray, and Louise Deshong Woodbridge. Lehr said, “We have been delighted to have been at this fair. The level of interest, knowledge and enthusiasm for art is amazing. There are serious collectors here.”

"I am thrilled"

Local Bluestone Gallery owner Pam Regan said, “I was pleased with my decision to take a chance to even apply to be selected. I am thrilled, not only to be here, but for the city of Philadelphia to have this fair. There’s such an amazing artist community here. I love the fair’s intimacy and freedom to curate my own booth. Rick did an amazing job organizing who is here and what they brought.”

"This was our best fair ever"

Suzanne Brooks Snider of Rojas Ford Fine Art presented the Latin American Masters Pavillion with works including Diego Rivera, Francisco Zuniga, Elma Rojas, among others. Snider said, “This was our best fair ever. There was tremendous interest in our Latin American masters. What an elegant and sophisticated audience who were eager to discover theses Central, South American and Mexican artists. It was a great success for us.”

“We sold 10 pieces"

Deb Morton of Philly’s Carre d’ artistes said, “We sold 10 pieces and engaged a commission, but more importantly, we met so many new collectors and interior designers who we will be inviting to the gallery. We expect a lot of future sales to come from this show.”

2019 Show Sponsors

Freeman's Auction Phil Fine Art Fair
Art Collectors Athenaeum
Ketel One Vodka Philadelphia Fine Art Fair

VIP Opening Night Preview Co-Hosts

Artnet
Phil Style Mag Fine Art Fair

SculptCare Partner & Beneficiary

Lead Online Sponsor

Association for Public Art
Artnet

Collector's Lounge Host

Artnet

Media Partners

Philly Inquirer Philadelphia Fine Art Fair
Phil Style Mag Fine Art Fair
Artnet
Art + Antiques Philadelphia Fine Art Fair
Artblog Phil Fine Art Fair
Icon Magazine Phil Fine Art Fair

Institutional Partners

Association for Public Art
Museum Without Walls Audio Association for Public Art
Association for Public Art

Fine Wine Sponsor

Iatesta Imports

Show Hours

Thursday, October 22nd
Opening Night Preview
5pm to 9pm

Friday, October 23rd
Show Hours | 12pm to 8pm

Saturday, October 24th
Show Hours | 11am to 6pm

Sunday, October 25th
Show Hours | 11am to 4pm

Ample public parking lots nearby

Show Venue

The 23rd Street Armory is Historic and Easily Accessible Location

Ideally situated between the two main streets in Philadelphia, Market and Chestnut, the historic and well known 23rd St. City Troop Armory is just walking distance from the city’s central train station (Amtrak’s 30th St. Station) and on a major exit street from Route 676, the cross-town expressway. Learn more.