We just received word that the long-running Art Chicago fair, which was going to be combined this year with the NEXT Fair  (with a rebranded name of Next Art Chicago), has been canceled. An email from organizers informs us that, "After a thorough analysis of the art fair landscape, Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. [MMPI] has determined not to move forward with the production of the 2012 edition of Next Art Chicago, and that Chicago will not remain a primary focus of its art fair business activities."

The Merchandise Mart continues, stating that, "...While Chicago is home to a thriving arts community, including galleries, world-class museums, theaters, arts-related organizations, along with thousands of art enthusiasts, it is our conclusion that the great majority of the art fair market in the United States has gravitated toward the coasts.  This is where MMPI will be reallocating its considerable resources."

In addition to Next Art Chicago, the MMPI family of art fairs include: The Armory Show, Art Platform-Los Angeles, Art Toronto, VOLTA and VOLTA NY.

New American Paintings will continue to keep you updated as we learn more about the closing of the fair. Follow us on Twitter @newampaintings for the latest.

Merchandise Mart entrance, Chicago. Photo Courtesy Art Next Chicago