Art critic Paddy Johnson addresses the common dilemma faced by unrepresented artists regarding the necessity of attending major art fairs. While acknowledging that fairs can be physically exhausting and prohibitively expensive, Johnson argues that their true value lies in strategic information gathering and long-term career planning rather than immediate sales or representation.
This advice highlights the shifting dynamics of the art world where networking and 'social currency' are essential for professional survival. By using events like Expo Chicago and Frieze New York as case studies, the piece emphasizes that while artists may not be 'missed' if they stay home, they forfeit the chance to gain critical market intelligence and serendipitous professional connections that often occur outside of formal booth interactions.