Frieze New York 2020 Canceled, Online Viewing Room Launched

Frieze has canceled its 2020 New York edition scheduled for May 6–10 on Randall's Island due to the rapid increase in coronavirus cases and deaths in the city. In response, the fair launched a Frieze Viewing Room, an online platform allowing participating exhibitors to present works to collectors. This virtual fair model follows Art Basel, which first canceled its Hong Kong edition and replaced it with an online event. Frieze communicated to exhibitors that they will be refunded for the canceled event or may choose to transfer payments to future editions, with additional incentives for those who opt for Frieze New York 2021 or other fairs. The viewing room was originally planned as a support tool for the physical fair, offered free to participating galleries, but now serves as a substitute. Organizers stated the platform enables collectors, museum professionals, and the public to digitally explore and acquire artworks from leading galleries worldwide.