A stunning conglomerate of immense talent adorns the pristine walls within the Park Avenue Armory for AIPAD’s annual show.

Written by Max Wiener

The Association of International Photography Art Dealers, or AIPAD, annually brings together the country’s top galleries to showcase their stunning compendiums for appreciators and buyers alike. Its size is massive and its depth is unmatched; one can spend hours pacing the hallways of the fair. Each gallery or dealer brings their finest works for purchase, but treating the fair as a museum allows one to appreciate the fantastic talent of both modern and iconic photographers, from Todd Webb to Nan Goldin. Even those new to the art form can thoroughly soak in the wonder of each artist’s nuances and intricacies, allowing them to immerse themselves in each image fully. Although there is much ground to cover, one should not be intimidated by the sheer amount of images; it makes it all the more enjoyable.

Claire Rosen, *The Sloth Bear Feast*, India, 2018
Koslov Larsen Gallery

Perhaps AIPAD’s most noticeable characteristic is the brevity of its collection, encompassing dozens of different photographic styles and approaches. No one artist or respective take on photography overpowers another, allowing each image and section to sing together in wonderful harmony. A black and white street photograph can be paired next to a shot of Michael Jordan and the two can have their moment in the limelight. Each has been allowed to show their beauty and, as viewers, we can appreciate them both equally. It’s hard to blend such opposing styles so effortlessly, but beneath the towering dome of the Armory, it feels all the more right.

Many celebrity shots on the walls of AIPAD’s show are truly magnetic and spliced within more mundane works; their presence feels monumentally important. While gazing through the show, the eyes of the great Jimi Hendrix lock with yours, drawing you in to match his intensity. Immediately above him is Mick Jagger, seated casually in front of a classic sports car, flaunting his status as the greatest frontman in rock. A quick walk around the corner will lock you in the hypnotic eyes of Kate Moss, and with her irresistible allure, she’ll coax you towards her. These icons and stars feel like friends in the relatively foreign land of the show. You learn about other figures and relate to their stories, but familiar faces always bring you closer.

ELLEPHANT Gallery
*Photo Credit:* AnnaRose Goldwitz

What AIPAD truly shows you is that everyone, whether amateur or professional, has a voice that deserves to be expressed and heard. With phones, everyone has the opportunity to become a photographer, giving the world a streamlined experience from artist to consumer. You no longer need a Leica and a dark room to produce moving images. Let the Armory walls remind us that we’re all unique and that our voices have a place in this world. Find your beat and march to it.

Sometimes, it may not feel like it, but the world wants to hear you. Let them.