The emphasis remains on drawings, which are represented by around 20 specialists. However, the decision to invite dealers from complementary fields has been taken in an effort to achieve a ‘critical mass’ of dealers without lowering the overall standard of the show.
MDNY chief executive Crispian Riley-Smith says: “The way the art world is changing today there are fewer top notch drawing dealers. Our addition of specialists in painting, sculpture and works on paper will allow us to maintain the overall quality of our show.”
Additions include both Old Master and contemporary specialists such as Rhode Island-based art gallery Cade Tompkins Projects.
Returning drawing dealers include David Tunick, Jill Newhouse and Stephen Ongpin.
The dates of MDNY have also been subtly changed.
They have been moved back a week in response to the schedule of the major drawing auctions in New York. The event will now take place from January 27 to February 3.
Riley-Smith adds that changes to the event reflect its efforts to “remain relevant in the market” while retaining the ir high level of connoisseurship.
MDNY was established in 1996 as a counterpart to Master Drawings London, which is now part of London Art Week.
The Academy Mansion on East 63 Street will serve as the centralised location for programmes and exhibitions.
