PAPERCITY MAGAZINE: LOOKING BACK AT THE DALLAS ART FAIR — THE FIRST-TIMERS TELL ALL RECORD NUMBER OF VISITORS IN YEAR 10 AND MORE TO COME
Monday, December 7, 2020 at 7:00PM Published on www.papercitymag.com; May 7, 2018 by Catherine D. Anspon
"A Homecoming"
Meanwhile, another narrative signaled a homecoming. SMU grad Olivia Smith — director of NYC-based, first-time exhibitor Magenta Plains — paired inter-generational talents Zach Bruder and Bill Saylor, both of whom found favor with collectors.
A good dilemma to have, as reported by Artnews, was running out of paintings by Bruder. Smith, nimble on her feet, enlisted FedEx. Read the anecdote, and what the authoritative mag thought of Year Ten, here.
PaperCity caught up with Smith back in Manhattan, amidst the fever of Frieze week, where Magenta is also exhibiting. The 30-year-old dealer shared impressions of her first year as DAF exhibitor: “Being a native Dallasite, it only made sense to bring Magenta Plains to the fair in my hometown. Reconnecting with the Dallas art scene, its institutions, and its supporters was particularly special for me, as I am a product of growing up within the city’s schools and museums.”
“IT’S AMAZING TO SEE HOW THE DALLAS ART SCENE HAS EXPLODED IN THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS— THERE ARE MANY FACETS TO EXPLORE, FROM DIY ART SPACES TO PRIVATE COLLECTIONS.”
Smith says, “The paintings in our booth by Bill Saylor and Zach Bruder were incredibly well received and we were very happy to forge new relationships which we feel are lasting. My peers and colleagues visiting from New York felt welcomed by the hospitality Dallas showed and in general sales were strong throughout. Many fellow exhibitors mentioned returning to the fair next year.”
And there was an after-hours happening involved too, which added a touch of community to the exhibitor experience for Magenta Plains and friends. The Dallas native curated a chic cocktail affair at her family’s Highland Park casa, with a little help from fellow art dealers. Smith says, “The highlight of my week was hosting a collector soirée at my childhood home on Saturday night to celebrate the fair with friends Half Gallery, Lyles & King, Night Gallery, and Canada.
“We staged some artwork alongside my family’s personal collection as an extension of the Dallas Art Fair like a one night pop-up. It was fantastic seeing the paintings installed in a very livable, domestic setting. The night ended in impromptu piano performances by hosts and guests alike — truly a night to remember!”