For over ten years, Feria Material has been a vibrant platform showcasing emerging and mid-sized galleries from Mexico, Latin America, the US, and Europe, emphasizing experimental art. Now in its 12th edition, the fair has established a dedicated following, distinguishing itself from the larger Zona Maco event.
The latest edition of Material recently launched at Maravilla Studios, a new venue located in the Atlampa neighborhood. This shift from the previous site at Expo Reforma has breathed fresh energy into the fair. Attendees enjoyed a well-attended opening day, marked by bustling booths and enticing food and drink options.
Exhibitors noted the advantages of the new location, as the galleries are now organized into five exhibition halls, eliminating the challenges of navigating multiple floors. This layout allows for a more cohesive experience for visitors.
Here are some standout booths from Feria Material 2026, which continues through February 8.
Kianí del Valle at Embajada
Embajada's booth showcases works from its San Juan-based artists, including Claudia Peña Salinas and Georgina Treviño. Treviño has designed a unique credit card for Mexican bank Hey Banco, available for registration at the fair. The booth features intriguing drawings by choreographer Kianí del Valle, whose collaborations with artists like Lorde and Bad Bunny are highlighted through these movement notations, alongside video performances.
Berenice Olmedo at Lodos
Featuring two innovative works, Lodos presents Berenice Olmedo's Amalia, a sculpture made from repurposed prosthetics equipped with motors that create dynamic movements. Nearby, Zeltzin showcases medical instruments transformed into tactile sculptures, reflecting on the themes of obsolescence and adaptation.
Elián Stolarsky at El Chico Gallery
Stolarsky's fabric works at El Chico Gallery delve into personal and collective histories, using stitched pieces to explore themes of displacement. His ongoing series País Extraño incorporates drypoint renderings of historical photographs, emphasizing the interconnectedness of personal and global narratives.
Perez Bros. at Charlie James Gallery
The Perez Bros. present mixed-media pieces inspired by lowrider culture, utilizing automotive materials to create vibrant artworks that celebrate their heritage. Their works resonate with themes of nostalgia and community.
"Mano de Obra" at Cimbra
Cimbra's presentation, titled Mano de Obra, features four Mexican artists addressing critical issues such as construction and environmental impact. The installation includes striking sculptures and thought-provoking pieces that engage with contemporary challenges.
Conor Ackhurst at Season 4 Episode 6
Ackhurst's tribute to composer Erik Satie features a striking sculpture of stacked pianos, accompanied by felt works that reference the acoustic properties of the material. This installation invites viewers to reflect on the relationship between sound and visual art.
