Artinfo suggests that the Merchandise Mart is embarking on a major defensive strategy to revitalize Art Chicago and the Armory Show in light of the new fair coming to New York. Steven Levy has been named Senior Vice President of MMPI’s Art Group:
In the last few years, Merchandise Mart’s biggest fairs, the Armory Show and Art Chicago, have garnered lackluster reviews from both gallerists and the media for being less than discriminate when it comes to letting in exhibitors. But Levy, it seems, is hoping to shake things up: “All will be examined and rethought as of this minute to best showcase the uniqueness of each fair,” he said in a statement.
Levy has worked in trade and consumer shows for over 35 years, though this new position will be his first foray into the world of fine art. He is also the co-founder of the Interior Design Show and the One of a Kind holiday shopping art and craft shows in Toronto, Vancouver, and Chicago. He is currently the senior vice president and general manager of Merchandise Mart’s Canadian division.
