- The Armory Show Expands its Range and Size -
Adds a new pier and introduces Modern art dealers


New York, NY (April 26, 2008) – The Armory Show, The International Fair of New Art, is increasing in size and, for the first time in its ten-year history, in range. Long known as the world's leading art fair devoted exclusively to contemporary art, The Armory Show is expanding its current location in Pier 94 to include Pier 92, which will incorporate a new section dedicated to dealers specializing in Modern works.

As befits the preeminent art fair in New York, home to more collectors, galleries, critics and artists than any other city, The Armory Show is broadening its spectrum from contemporary art to encompass Modern art. The Armory Show is known for presenting works that come directly from artists’ studios, but expanding to Modern work opens the door to historically significant pieces. Modernism is generally known as the era of art beginning with Impressionism in the late 19th Century and extending through the Post-War years, which gives the fair a museum-like span. Executive Director Katelijne De Backer says, “After ten years of tremendous success as a contemporary fair, we are ready to open our range to include Modern art. Visitors to The Armory Show will now have access not only to the newest trends in the art world, but also to the masterpieces that heralded these developments."

New York City Economic Development Corporation has designated Merchandise Mart Properties Inc., The Armory Show’s parent company, to redevelop and expand the tradeshow facilities on Pier 94 and 92, opening the door to an eventual $100 million renovation. Pier 92’s 30,000 square feet of exhibition space can accommodate some 70 new exhibitors, a significant addition to the 54,000 square feet and 160 exhibitors typically hosted in Pier 94, The Armory Show’s site for the past two years. Paul Morris, cofounder of The Armory Show, adds, “With The Armory Show’s expanded direction and VOLTA NY’s emphasis on emerging art, we now provide collectors unparalleled access to the most important artwork of the 20th and 21st centuries in New York, the heart of the art world."



SHOW DATES
VIP Preview: Wednesday, March 4
Public Hours: Thursday, March 5 through Sunday, March 8

SHOW LOCATION
Piers 92 and 94
Twelfth Avenue at 55th Street, New York City

ABOUT THE ARMORY SHOW
The Armory Show is the successor to the highly acclaimed Gramercy International Art Fairs that attracted thousands to their New York, Los Angeles and Miami shows between 1994 and 1998. In its ten years, The Armory Show has become an international institution. Artists, galleries, collectors, critics and curators from all over the world make New York their destination during Armory Week.