For the first time in its 27 years of operating, The Armory Show in New York will feature outdoor art installations. The news comes at a time when many institutions are following suit, to provide experiences to visitors who have been deprived of art due to covid restrictions.
For nearly two decades, the event was held in March in Manhattan’s West Side Piers, but will now move to the state-run Javits Center, as part of a new art week that will commence on September 9. The Armory Off-Site will hold special installations, some of which were created specifically for the event, at four locations: Astor Place Plaza, Bella Abzug Park, Flatiron Plaza, and Pier 64 at Hudson River Park.
The event is a fantastic opportunity to witness both upcoming and seasoned galleries exhibit the master’s of art history to the contemporary figures changing the game. Of the many unique programs and works on display lies a piece created during the pandemic by U.K. artist, Grayson Perry. In Very Large Very Expensive Abstract Painting (2020), the artist explores cultural and political fault lines in America and seeks to illustrate a way to transcend these barriers.
In response to the rising threat of the Delta variant, visitors must present a negative covid test taken within 72 hours of the show and wear masks while at the event. The Armory Show will also maintain timed entry into the grounds along with enforcing social distancing.
As many travel bans continue to be in place, 55 of the 99 international galleries will not be able to be physically present at this year’s showing, however, they will participate in an online iteration of the fair.
A VIP-only preview will begin on September 9, while doors open to the public from September 10-12. To beat the lines, timed tickets are available now for purchase.
Also in the news, Brain Dead Fabrications enlists Michael Decker as the first artist to exhibit at the new space.
The Armory Show
429 11th Ave,
New York, NY 10001
