In an unexpected turn of events, the Art Dealers Association of America (ADAA) has announced that its upcoming fair at the Park Avenue Armory this fall will now benefit the Whitney Museum of American Art. This decision comes after the ADAA ended its long-standing partnership with the Henry Street Settlement, a nonprofit focused on social services.
The ADAA's new philanthropic direction marks a significant change, following the cancellation of its well-established Art Show in New York City, which had been a vital source of funding for the Henry Street Settlement. This fair typically generated around $1 million in unrestricted funds, supporting essential services such as healthcare, arts programming, and housing for the Lower East Side community.
In response to the cancellation, the Henry Street Settlement quickly organized a new fundraising initiative to sustain its programs. Subsequently, in October, they announced a partnership with the Independent Art Fair, scheduled for this spring.
Earlier this year, the ADAA unveiled plans for a new event, simply named the ADAA Fair, slated for November, but initially lacked a designated philanthropic partner. Now, the organization has confirmed that the proceeds from the fair's preview gala will support the Whitney's educational and artistic initiatives.
ADAA Board Chair Susan Sheehan expressed that this partnership aligns with the association's commitment to fostering meaningful philanthropic opportunities in the visual arts sector. ADAA Executive Director Kinsey Robb emphasized that this collaboration allows them to connect more directly with the cultural ecosystem while remaining true to the values of the ADAA.
The ADAA also operates a foundation that has provided grants to various institutions, including the DuSable Black History Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit.
Scott Rothkopf, Director of the Whitney, highlighted that this partnership showcases ADAA's acknowledgment of the museum's vital role in promoting American art and ensuring its accessibility to diverse audiences. Notably, young visitors aged 19-25 can now enter the museum for free, although general admission remains at $30 for adults and $24 for seniors and students.
Recent tax documents reveal that the Whitney Museum reported a net income of over $24 million after expenses, while the Henry Street Settlement reported earnings of just over $155,000. Each organization benefits from substantial annual contributions.
Serving approximately 50,000 individuals annually, the Henry Street Settlement operates the Abrons Arts Center, which it claims is the only comprehensive arts and culture center within a New York City social services organization.
As the ADAA moves forward with this new partnership, it not only redefines its role within the art community but also sets a precedent for future collaborations that could enhance support for cultural institutions.