Every year, the art fair descends into Manhattan like pollen as cherry blossoms begin to cover the ground. You don't need to be a serious collector to take part in the city's small trade fairs, but you'll need arch support sneakers to get through fairs and artistry in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Esther II (Murray Hill)
Esther, a boutique fair founded by Gallery Temnikova and Kasera, debuted last year and joined the growing conditions of the Alternative Art Fair. It attracted enthusiastic crowds at the Estonian home of Grand Boat Arts, once a popular gathering space for post-World War II Estonian refugees. This year, Esther is back and has a sleazy collection from galleries in Europe, Japan and the Baltic Sea, along with an exhibition of healthy works by New York artists. Entry is free. May 6-10 at the New York Estonia House at 243 East 34th Street, Murray Hill, Manhattan. Esther.ee.
Nada New York (Chelsea)
The new Art Dealer Alliance, one of the bigger exhibitors, has returned at the annual fair, with the spotlight on young galleries and emerging artists and curators. This time, it spans 50 cities, spanning 120 galleries, art spaces, nonprofits and 50 cities. Another plus? If you freeze in a shed, Nada is only a few blocks away. A daily ticket is $55. The Multiday pass is $75. Senior and student tickets are available on-site for $35. May 7-11 at Starlett Lehighville, west 601 West 26th Avenue in Manhattan. newartdealers.org.
Clio Art Fair (Chelsea)
Clio, who charges himself as an independent artist anti-fair, returns to his 11th year. The Fair focuses on artists with no representation in the gallery. In other words, the browser can expect eclectic combinations of works, including paintings, photographs, and mixed media installations from around the world. Visitors can find prices ranging from $250 to $25,000. Furthermore, this year, Fair presents “behaving as if God exists.” This is a work of performance art that explores the shaking definition of humanity as it evolves in the future of artificial intelligence. Entry is free. VIP passes for two people, including the opening reception, are $35. May 8-11, 528-532 West 28th Street, Chelsea, Manhattan. clioartfair.com.
