Independent 20th Century Expands at Breuer Building in 2026

The Independent 20th Century art fair took place at the Breuer building from 24 to 27 September 2026. This edition was notably larger than previous years, with a 75% increase in size. The fair hosted around 57 exhibitors and showcased works by more than 130 artists, reflecting its expanded scope and ambition for the year.

Among the highlights was the presentation by Lévy Gorvy Dayan, which focused on works by Yves Klein, primarily from the early 1960s. The display included Klein’s Blue Rain installation, as well as several of his signature Cosmogonies paintings. These works are known for incorporating natural forces, such as rain or wind, into the creative process.

The fair also featured commentary on the shared interests of Yves Klein and Lucio Fontana. Both artists were noted for their connection to light and nature. According to Dee, they were friends who admired each other throughout their lives and shared a fascination with physical space and the boundaries of traditional painting.

The organization behind the fair once hired a curator, Cecilia Alemani, who had recently completed her master’s at Bard College. She was the only employee at the time and was tasked with managing a 40,000 square foot space and organizing exhibitions without a budget, as recalled by Dee. This anecdote illustrates the resourcefulness present in the organization’s early days.

A combination of seriousness and scrappiness has contributed to the fair’s journey to the Breuer building nearly two decades later. The event’s growth and its new venue reflect the ongoing evolution of the fair and its commitment to presenting significant 20th-century art in a prominent setting.