Artexpo launches first Las Vegas show

Artexpo, the biggest name in international art fairs, is expanding and launching its first show in Las Vegas Sept. 28-30 at Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South.

Building on the 29-year success of Artexpo New York, which takes place every spring, Artexpo Las Vegas provides a venue to showcase talent on the West Coast in the fall.

Las Vegas was chosen to serve the growing number of art buyers and exhibitors from the western states.

"Artexpo Las Vegas offers West Coast art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to visit their favorite publishers, galleries and artists in an exciting location that is closer to home," said Eric Smith, vice president of The Art Group, the show's producer.

Art collectors, whether novices or experienced buyers, are expected to attend the show and explore the latest trends in the fine art world, from original paintings and sculptures to limited-edition lithographs, animation art, photography and other media.

More than 250 exhibitors will display creations by celebrated contemporary artists, such as Pino, Leon Bronstein and Hamilton Aguiar, alongside limited-edition pieces by the "masters," including Pissarro and Chagall.

A big attraction for many music fans will be prized paintings by rock legends Ronnie Wood, Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix.

Another section of the show is the SOLO Independent Artists' Pavilion, which will showcase the work of the world's emerging artists who have yet to sign with a gallery or art dealer. SOLO is a venue for artists to be discovered, not only by gallery owners and art publishers, but by collectors and enthusiasts in search of something new.

The show is open to the public from noon to 6 p.m. Sept. 28, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 29 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 30.

General admission tickets for Artexpo Las Vegas are $10 a day; $5 for seniors and students; and free for children younger than 12.