The Armory Show/ 24th edition (New York, NY, Piers 92&94)

By Tiziana Maggio / Article published on Look Lateral Magazine

This year, a queue of black-and-white spectral silhouetted figures rising on a 25 feet marquee highlights the plight of Syrian immigrants whilst welcoming visitors to the 24th edition of the Armory. This highly topical and site-specific installation by French street artist JR is titled ‘So Close’ and was commissioned by Artsy in partnership with curator Jeffrey Deitch and adds an important socio-political dimension to this year’s show.

Opening to the public this Thursday, March 8th, the show is now helmed by Nicole Berry, replacing former Artnet News editor Benjamin Genocchio who was dismissed following allegations of sexual harassment. The four-day show will offer five curated sections which are set to initiate much debate on the state of the market and art affairs, as well as showcasing some of the most sought-after 20th and 21st Century art ranging from masterpieces to bleeding-edge avant-garde art.

Within the Galleries section, the fair will assemble some 198 galleries from 31 countries, with a stronger gallery presence from Asia this year. The Armory has registered 66 new exhibitors, with the likes of Gagosian, Perroti, Regen Projects and Van Doren Waxter all returning after a long absence, along with new entrants Paragon, Pearl Lam Galleries, Galerija Gregor Podnar, Night Gallery to name but a few. Meantime, the Insights section is focusing exclusively on 20th century artworks whilst Presents is showcasing emerging artists from galleries which are no more than ten years’ old. Then, the Focus section is reflecting on the intertwined relationship between body and the digital world and the last section, Platform, is making space for site specific and large-scale artworks across the Piers 92 & 94. 

All in all, this is a strong return to form for Armory, which promises to be one of the highlights of this year’s art calendar.