Your Guide to EXPO Chicago 2026

Chicago's largest art event returns with a more 'intentional' focus under new leadership.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:23pm

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An extreme close-up of shattered glass and glittering sequins in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting, conceptually representing the glamour and energy of an art fair.The vibrant weekend celebration of EXPO Chicago's 50th anniversary will bring fun, local flavor, and creative energy to the city's art scene.Chicago Today

EXPO Chicago, the city's largest contemporary art fair, is returning to Navy Pier April 9-12 with a smaller but more curated lineup of 130 galleries from around the world. The event is under new leadership this year, with Kate Sierzputowski taking over as director from founder Tony Karman. Sierzputowski says the 2026 fair will have a 'more intentional' focus, including the controversial decision to cut booths for not-for-profit groups.

Why it matters

EXPO Chicago is a major annual event that draws art collectors, gallerists, and enthusiasts from around the world to the city. The changes under new leadership, including a more selective exhibitor list, aim to create a more engaging experience for attendees and spotlight emerging and mid-career artists and galleries, especially those with ties to Chicago.

The details

The 2026 fair will feature a mix of blue-chip galleries and mid-career artist galleries, with around a dozen Chicago-based exhibitors. Highlights include a panel discussion with artist Nick Cave, whose work is currently on display at the Smithsonian, and a preview of exhibitions from the soon-to-open Obama Presidential Center. Local artists to watch include Faheem Majeed, Yvette Mayorga, Pedro Montilla, Luke Agada, and Laura Letinsky.

  • EXPO Chicago 2026 will take place April 9-12.
  • The opening night on Thursday, April 9 is ticketed and costs $165 per person.
  • Single-day admission tickets start at $40, and three-day admission tickets start at $68.
  • Guided tours can be booked for $30, and seniors and students may receive discounts.
  • Children under 12 get in for free.

The players

Kate Sierzputowski

The new director of EXPO Chicago, succeeding founder Tony Karman who stepped down last May.

Tony Karman

The founder of EXPO Chicago, who launched the contemporary and modern art fair in 2012 as a descendant of the former Art Chicago fair.

Monique Meloche

A longtime Chicago gallerist and art dealer who sits on EXPO's selection committee.

Essence Harden

The curator for EXPO Chicago.

Louise Bernard

The founding director of the Obama Presidential Center and the Obama Foundation's vice president.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know if it's resolved by the fair. I don't think it is, but it does allow for, hopefully, another way of relating and being with each other. It's still art and people still make it and it's still one of the most essential human qualities of our species.”

— Essence Harden, Curator, EXPO Chicago

“We really think about that idea of humanism and the role of empathy and how we are all connected.”

— Louise Bernard, Founding Director, Obama Presidential Center

What’s next

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The takeaway

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