Brooklyn’s CONDUCTOR Art Fair: A Platform for Global Majority Artists
By Darren Smith, Arts Reporter
May 2, 2026
Brooklyn’s vibrant art scene gained fresh momentum this week with the debut of CONDUCTOR, a bold new art fair at Powerhouse Arts that foregrounds artists and galleries from the Global Majority and Indigenous nations. Opening on April 30 and running through May 3, the inaugural edition drew over 800 visitors on its first night alone, creating an electric atmosphere reminiscent of a major biennial preview rather than a traditional fair launch.
Curated by Adriana Farietta in collaboration with Powerhouse Arts, CONDUCTOR distinguishes itself through its intentional focus on underrepresented perspectives from Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Oceania, and Indigenous communities worldwide. “This is more than an art fair—it’s a platform for cultural exchange and diplomacy,” Farietta noted, emphasizing critical voices at a pivotal global moment.
A standout feature is the significant overlap with the upcoming 2026 Venice Biennale. Several participating artists are set to debut or feature prominently there, including Ebony G. Patterson, Annalee Davis, and Tammy Nguyen in the main exhibition, alongside Beya Gille Gacha (Cameroon Pavilion), RojoNegro (Mexico Pavilion), and Bugarin + Castle (Scottish Pavilion). This strategic timing offers collectors and enthusiasts an exclusive preview of works heading to one of the art world’s most prestigious stages.
The fair’s immersive installations further elevate the experience. Highlights include on-site creations and thoughtful presentations that blend commerce with contemplation. One restrained yet captivating installation, “The House of Silence” (2026) by Turkish artist Vuslat and Mexico-based Tunisian architect Sana Frini, drew particular praise for its quiet power amid the bustling venue.
Located in Gowanus at Powerhouse Arts—a nonprofit known for ambitious programming—CONDUCTOR builds on the success of recent events like the Brooklyn Fine Art Print Fair. Its accessible ticket model and emphasis on individual artists alongside galleries signal a refreshing alternative to larger, more commercial fairs.
Industry watchers see CONDUCTOR as a timely response to calls for greater inclusivity in the art market. By centering Global Majority narratives, it not only expands market opportunities for participating artists but also enriches New York’s spring cultural calendar with diverse, thought-provoking work. Additional connections include artist Ana Raylander Mártis dos Anjos, featured in the upcoming Carnegie International.
As the fair continues through the weekend, early sales reports and attendee feedback suggest strong momentum. With its blend of emerging and established talents, immersive environments, and international resonance, CONDUCTOR positions Brooklyn as an essential destination for forward-thinking collectors and cultural enthusiasts.
Don’t miss the final days of CONDUCTOR—secure your $15 tickets and experience this groundbreaking fair at Powerhouse Arts. Explore the full lineup of Global Majority artists and plan your visit today to engage with tomorrow’s defining voices in contemporary art.
