The Armory Show, one of New York’s most prestigious art fairs, has announced Kyla McMillan as its new director. This appointment comes at a crucial juncture for the fair, which is preparing for its 30th anniversary edition and its first year under the ownership of Frieze.
Kyla McMillan, Photo Alexandra Nova / Courtesy of Frieze
McMillan brings over a decade of experience in the art industry to her new role. Her impressive resume includes directorships at prominent galleries such as David Zwirner and Gavin Brown's Enterprise. Most recently, McMillan founded Saint George Projects, an innovative itinerant gallery and consultancy that has collaborated with artists like Alvaro Barrington and Henri Paul Broyard.
"I am honoured to join The Armory Show at this important moment in the fair's history," McMillan said in a statement. She elucidated her goal to "empower collectors and emphasize the fair's role as a platform for artists, galleries, and art enthusiasts."
The appointment comes just months before the 2024 edition of the fair, scheduled for September 5-8 at New York's Javits Center. This year's event will feature 235 galleries, a significant increase from the number participating in Frieze New York.
Kristell Chadé, Frieze's executive director of fairs, praised McMillan's "talent for reaching new audiences and forging meaningful connections with art," highlighting how this appointment strengthens Frieze's network and position in the U.S. art scene.
McMillan faces the challenge of defining The Armory Show's identity in relation to its smaller but prestigious sibling, Frieze New York. She expressed her commitment to building on the fair's achievements while "championing new voices and creating opportunities for diverse perspectives in contemporary art."
The 2024 Armory Show will see the return of over 145 exhibitors from the previous year, including major galleries like 303 Gallery, Kasmin, and Victoria Miro. It will also welcome newcomers such as Commonwealth and Council, GALLERY BATON, and Hannah Traore Gallery.
As McMillan takes the helm, the art world will be watching closely to see how she navigates The Armory Show's position in the competitive scope of international art fairs and shapes its future under Frieze ownership.
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