Twenty years ago, Printed Matter introduced the first ever NY Art Book Fair by announcing: “Exhibitors and participants from New York City to Reykjavik and Tokyo are convening to share their involvements and activities with contemporary art books.” What began in 2006 as a gathering of 73 exhibitors has grown into the world’s leading Fair for artists’ books, welcoming thousands of exhibitors from all over the world in the succeeding years. While NYABF has expanded in visibility and reach, its mission remains steadfast: to represent the breadth of artistic publishing practices, connect publishers with wide audiences, and nurture meaningful relationships within an international publishing community.
Across four days, NYABF convenes a wide range of independent and institutional publishers; antiquarian booksellers presenting rare and historic works; contemporary galleries and nonprofit art spaces; and a thriving community of zine publishers whose experimental spirit continues to redefine the medium. The Fair also hosts a robust schedule of programs including book launches, lectures, exhibitions, music performances, and workshops.
NYABF 2026 carries particular resonance as it coincides with the 50th anniversaries of both Printed Matter and MoMA PS1. As the founding organization behind the NY and LA Art Book Fairs, Printed Matter serves the global artist book community by providing a distribution platform for independent publishers, organizing year-round programs and exhibitions, and providing funding opportunities to emerging and established presses. Printed Matter is honored to celebrate this shared milestone of 50 years with MoMA PS1, an institution whose kindred commitment to experimental artistic practices is a cornerstone in the New York City cultural landscape.
As we look ahead to the next 50 years, Printed Matter draws inspiration from the hundreds of new international art book fairs and publishing initiatives that have emerged in the past twenty years. This year’s Fair will deepen its support for publishers while honoring the history of the form and developing new programmatic collaborations, all of which broaden how audiences engage with artists’ books.