The 16th edition of the Dallas Art Fair concluded with a resounding success, marked by vigorous sales, acquisitions by the Dallas Museum of Art, and enthusiastic participation from collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. Kelly Cornell, Director of the Dallas Art Fair, expressed her delight, stating, “Our 16th edition affirms Dallas’s reputation as an exciting hub for art commerce, cultural dialogue, and spirited festivities.”One of the highlights of this year’s fair was the Dallas Museum of Art’s acquisition of three significant artworks through the Dallas Art Fair Foundation’s program. Kelly Cornell emphasized the importance of these acquisitions, noting, “The fair facilitates strong connections between exceptional institutions and some of the most vibrant players in the art market.”

The fair featured a public art program titled I Talk to Trees, showcasing medium- and large-scale sculptures that explored themes of connection and rupture with the natural world. Sara Hignite, the curator of the outdoor installation, highlighted the dynamic entry it provided to the fair.

Galleries participating in the fair also shared their experiences and successes. Alexander Berggruen from ALEXANDER BERGGRUEN (New York) recounted a thrilling opening day, mentioning, “On opening day, we offered guests complimentary old-fashioned Dr. Peppers from a vintage-themed cooler we brought, alongside Stephanie Shih’s 2024 ceramic sculpture Dr. Pepper, A Lift for Life! It was a thrill to see seasoned collectors, kids visiting the fair, and museum curators alike enjoying sodas as they browsed through our booth. The joy Shih’s three works (in total) brought to visitors through their technical precision and their nostalgia brought about quick sales for all three. And it was great, in general, this year, seeing such wonderful camaraderie amongst all of the exhibitors.”

Sloan Black from Berggruen Gallery (San Francisco) expressed their honor in participating and noted, “Berggruen Gallery was honored to participate in the 2024 Dallas Art Fair. The gallery placed a selection of works by artists such as David Bates, Heather Day, Matt Kleberg, Michael Gregory, Stephanie H. Shih, Linda Ridgway, and Tom McKinley, among others. We were thrilled to see the engagement of local collectors and artists.”

Christine Berry from Berry Campbell Gallery (New York) highlighted the growing interest and trust from collectors in Dallas, indicating, “We look forward to returning to Dallas Art Fair every year for its laid-back atmosphere and convivial energy. In addition to seasoned collectors and prominent supporters of the arts, we were especially excited to meet new young patrons at this year’s edition, which indicates that the contemporary art scene in the city will continue to develop and be amply supported.”

Max Marshall from Deli Gallery (Mexico City, New York) expressed excitement about their first time in Dallas and looks forward to future editions, stating, “It was an amazing first time in Dallas, and [we are] very much looking forward to next year!”

Peggy Leboeuf from PERROTIN (New York, Paris, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Shanghai) praised the Dallas Art Fair and the local community, saying, “The DAF and the Dallas community are incredibly welcoming, enthusiastic, and a pleasure to work with. We love our time here in Texas!”

Hilary Burt from SOCO Gallery (Charlotte) echoed this sentiment, emphasizing, “A phenomenal first outing. [We are] especially pleased that most works were placed with Dallas-based collectors. Already looking forward to our next outing.”

The fair also saw significant sales across various galleries, with notable acquisitions and placements in private collections and institutions. From selling large-scale artworks to smaller pieces, the Dallas Art Fair showcased a diverse range of artistic expressions.

In addition to the sales and acquisitions, the fair hosted various events, including the VIP Preview, Dallas Contemporary Spring Openings, and engaging discussions at the Nasher Sculpture Center. These events added to the vibrant atmosphere of the fair, bringing together artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts.

For more information about the Dallas Art Fair, visit their website or follow them on social media.