Navigating the 2024 Dallas Art Fair with a Designer’s Eye
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For art enthusiasts, the Dallas Art Fair is always a highly anticipated, can’t-miss event. Last Thursday’s VIP opening at the Fashion Industry Gallery lived up to expectations and then some. Now in its 16th year, 91 exhibitors — representing 49 cities in 17 countries — showcased a covetable assortment of modern and contemporary works.
While the show itself is always a treat, this year I was lucky enough to shadow NPI Design founder Niki Samuel. Known for her impeccable interiors, the Dallas-based designer is also an accomplished painter and sculptor — not to mention, a huge fan of the fair.
“I love the palpable excitement when art lovers move around together, in and out of halls, hoping to be inspired and discover a special piece of art. As a designer who often participates in the selection of art for clients, I’m grateful for the chance to experience a mix of talent from a broad selection of galleries.”
So, what makes a piece stand out? “Attention to detail and complexity,” she said.
“Art adds story, texture, and interest to any space.”
The first piece to catch Samuel’s eye was a showstopper – Untitled, 2021, a lacquer and metal leaf on panel by artist Paolo Serra from London’s Rochino Gallery. “It’s absolutely stunning. I have the perfect client for it.”
At Los Angeles gallery Hostler Burrows’ booth, she stopped to admire a trio of glass-blown, mirrored sculptures by Swedish artist Hanna Hansdotter. “The silhouettes are so interesting and unexpected.”
I asked Samuel to choose one piece she’d personally like to own. She singled out Bullfight, 1956, by modernist artist Janice Biala from New York’s Hollis Taggart. “This truly is an investment piece. The color harmonies are exquisite. I can see it working in any style home, traditional or modern.”
The good news for dealers is show-goers are not only looking – they’re buying.
According to The Art Newspaper, many dealers reported strong preview day sales.
I ran into longtime friend Vinnie Deegan at Cris Worley Fine Art. The Dallas-based gallery had already sold Séance, 2019-23, by Erick Swenson, along with pieces by Robert Sagerman, Raychael Stine, and William Cannings.
Samuel offers this advice to prospective buyers: “Consider the room, scale, and mood. Plan your budget in advance. And if you’re a first-time buyer, keep it simple. Go for non-story work with uniformity.”
She also warns against impulse buying. “At first glance, an art piece can catch your eye and seem right. But walk away, then return a second or third time. This will help process if the piece is right for you and your space.”
The Dallas Art Fair is open today, April 7, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Fashion Industry Gallery, 1807 Ross Avenue.
