Butter, the innovative art fair founded in Indianapolis, is set to make its Los Angeles debut this week, coinciding with the vibrant Frieze week. This marks the fair's first expansion beyond its Midwest roots, as collectors and dealers flock to the city.
Established in 2021 by the cultural development firm GangGang, Butter presents a unique no-commission model that prioritizes Black visual artists from California and beyond. The Los Angeles edition will be the sixth iteration of this pioneering fair.
The event will take place at Hollywood Park in Inglewood from February 26 to March 1. Since its inception, Butter has successfully generated over $1.2 million in direct sales for Black artists.
In contrast to traditional art fairs, where galleries often take a commission, Butter allows participating artists to retain 100 percent of their sales proceeds. Artworks at the Los Angeles fair will be available at prices ranging from $200 to $25,000.
The lineup features a diverse array of talent, including former Los Angeles Dodgers player turned painter Micah Johnson, Compton-based artist Mr. Wash, photographer Micaiah Carter, and many others who represent the African diaspora.
Alongside the sales floor, the fair will host engaging programming. R&B singer Ro James is slated to speak on the TEDxInglewood stage, while artist Lauren Halsey will guide 1,000 local students in a collaborative installation during Education Day. Additionally, artist Autumn Breon will unveil "The Care Machine," an initiative to distribute feminine care products and HPV self-screening kits. A special screening of "The Sugar Shack," produced by Coodie & Chike, will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ernie Barnes's iconic painting.
Preview Night on February 26 is expected to attract notable figures such as athletes Jrue and Lauren Holiday, actor Gail Bean, comedian Mike Epps, and singer Van Hunt.
Children aged 18 and under will enjoy free admission, and a dedicated kids' zone featuring art activities and games is planned. Attendees can also take advantage of discounted hotel rooms through a partnership with Anthem Hotel LA, conveniently located near the fair.
Butter's expansion into Los Angeles comes at a time when art fairs across the nation are reassessing their structures due to rising costs and calls for equity. By eliminating commissions, Butter aims to redefine how value circulates during art fair week, especially in major coastal markets.
While the scalability of this model beyond Indianapolis remains uncertain, its arrival in Los Angeles represents a significant step towards reimagining artist participation and benefits within the art fair economy.
