Four times as many visitors as Art Basel Miami and twice as much fun, the International Herald Tribune previews ARCO:

Among Europe’s largest and most prestigious art fairs, ARCO has long drawn top tier galleries and important collectors from around the globe.  This year it will feature 244 galleries from 31 countries, though the majority come from Spain, Western Europe, and North America.  Each year a country identified as on the cusp – or in the midst – of artistic efflorescence is invited to showcase the best of their contemporary art scene.  The spotlight this year is on India, one of the world’s fastest-growing contemporary art markets, which will have 13 galleries showcasing the work of some 50 artists.

The sprawling fair, which will occupy three pavilions at the convention center, tries to tick every box while bridging the gap between powerhouse galleries with brand-name artists and younger dealers who specialize in emerging artists and new media.  There are special areas and programs dedicated to virtually every facet of the contemporary art scene, including performance, video, and installation art. Beyond the exhibits, there is an extensive program of conferences, panel discussions, and symposia featuring artists, curators, dealers, collectors, critics and other experts from New Delhi to Seattle.

Emerging and Brand-Name Artists at Madrid’s Annual Fair (International Herald Trbune)