EXPO Chicago 2025: Record sales, new highlights and what set this year apart

The 12th edition of EXPO CHICAGO 2025 officially opened its doors on April 24 at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, bringing together the global contemporary art community in a vibrant celebration of innovation, diversity and collaboration. Under the direction of President Tony Karman, the fair continues to reinforce Chicago’s position as a central hub in the international art market.

“It was a privilege to welcome such a remarkable lineup of artists and galleries to EXPO CHICAGO 2025,” said Karman. “As part of the Frieze network of fairs, EXPO CHICAGO showcases dynamic presentations that amplify Chicago’s standing as a premier cultural destination. Our sincere gratitude goes to Northern Trust, whose support allows us to continue our commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue through both contemporary and modern art.”

This year’s fair marked the second under the ownership of Frieze, whose acquisition has elevated the fair’s global profile while expanding opportunities for collectors, curators, and artists alike. With over 170 global art galleries participating from more than 35 countries, EXPO CHICAGO continues its commitment to showcasing museum-quality presentations from both emerging artists and established names.

One of the fair’s defining features, the IN/SITU program, curated this year by Jessica S. Hong, transformed the expansive Navy Pier venue into an immersive exhibition space with large-scale installations from around the world. Complementing this was the PROFILE section, which focused on solo presentations, and EXPOSURE, curated by Rosario Güiraldes, that featured young galleries under ten years old.

A standout highlight in 2025 was the expanded collaboration with the Galleries Association of Korea, resulting in the participation of 20 new leading Korean galleries. This cultural exchange, supported by South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, deepened the fair’s international scope and introduced new audiences to Korean contemporary art.

Chicago’s own dynamic art scene was well represented, with local galleries like McCormick Gallery, ENGAGE Projects, and DOCUMENT unveiling exclusive special edition artworks and installations. Among them, Raeleen Kao’s “printstallation” stood out for its intricate work with paper and ink, while artist Hilma’s Ghost unveiled “Cosmic Altar,” a monumental painting crafted in collaboration with a psychic medium.

Outside the walls of Navy Pier, EXPO OVERRIDE returned, placing large-scale digital art on billboards throughout Chicago. This public art initiative linked the fair with the broader cityscape, amplifying the presence of contemporary art in everyday life.

The 2026 event's dates are not yet confirmed, but it will likely be held in April of that year as well. 

Sources WTTW – Expo Chicago Director Talks Art and Economy in 2025; EXPO CHICAGO – Highlights for the 2025 Edition; Chicago Gallery News