Here are some snaps from what we've seen at the Armory so far. There is so much to see and do that we're still digesting but we'll have more thoughts for you soon! The preview night at the Armory show was packed but we saw some really strong work in the Nordic section and some excellent, unexpected photography coming out of the Korean galleries - definitely worth a return visit and with a pared down exhibitor list, better lighting, and more seating, the visiting experience was much more enjoyable. Overall, however, the Armory felt a little tame.

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We also checked out the Volta Show where galleries spotlight one artist per booth. There were strong showings from Matt Rich at Samson gallery (Boston) and exciting 3D pieces from Aakash Nihalani at Carmichael Gallery (LA). Monumental portrait painting from Janet Werner was a highlight at Parisian Laundry from Montreal, a consistently strong Canadian gallery.

Aakash Nihalani

Janet Werner

Matt Rich

Thursday afternoon we also stopped by the Independent Art Fair, which has vertiginous stairs (if you're afraid of heights, bring a buddy and hold their hand!) but an otherwise beautiful space in Chelsea. Galleries are more experimental and feature more installation and object-based work and its a pleasure to wander around the different floors. Our favorites included small geometric wooden sculptures by Lucy Skaer at Murray Guy Gallery and collages by Oliver Payne at Herald Street Gallery. Today - the Pool Art Fair, Moving Image and a reception at the Norwegian Consulate (we can't wait to see the nibbles!). More to come!

Oliver Payne

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