Axelle Expo brings new art, print shop to Javits: Axelle Fine Arts and Artexpo join forces for a two-day, trade-only event

Art Business News, Feb, 2003 by Maja Tarateta

Axelle Expo, a two-day, trade-only event held Thurs., Feb. 27 and Fri., Feb. 28 on the floor of International Artexpo New York, will feature new art, new artists, an exciting book project and a one-of-a-kind, on-site printing facility.

"I've seen exhibitors with ink-jet printers and artists painting at their easels at trade shows," said President Bertrand Delacroix, "but I have never seen anyone set up and operate a full print shop on the show floor."

The company's printing division, Axelle Editions, is setting up shop to produce single-color, limited-edition serigraphs by Michel Delacroix and several of its other artists at the show. The company will also open its press to other artists on an invitation basis.

Axelle Expo is a three-year-old exposition sponsored by Axelle Fine Arts that, for the first time, will run in the Jacob Javits Center concurrently with Artexpo.

"Hosting our own expo gave us the unique opportunity to cater to our clients and really spend time with them," said Vicky Berg, Axelle Fine Arts operations manager. "However, merging with Artexpo will give us greater exposure and help in expanding our customer base while still allowing us to see to the needs of our established clients"

"The collaboration between Axelle and Artexpo is a welcome addition to the show, and we are happy to give our attendees access to the fine art offerings of Axelle Fine Arts," said Joyce Jamison, Artexpo director.

Axelle Expo will resemble a gallery space with white walls and museum-style hanging, according to Berg. A highlight of the event will be a blockbuster celebration of the 70th birthday of artist Michel Delacroix. The company will release a new limited-edition serigraph by the artist entitled "La Nuit Bleue" as well as a commemorative art book entitled Once Upon a Time in Paris.

The show will also feature the debut of new limited-edition images by Philippe Vasseur, Albert Hadjiganev, Andre Bourrie and Jean-Daniel Bouvard. Also on view will be original paintings from other company artists, including Fabienne Delacroix, Elizabeth Estivalet and others. Many of the company's artists will also be on-hand at the show.

Axelle Expo will be located at Artexpo booth #1773. For more information, call (718) 246-1200.