The Spring Show NYC, the second year of which happens this spring from May 2-6, is a life long dream of the Art and Antique Dealers League of America. It is held in the Seventh Regiment Armory between 67th and 68th Streets on Park Avenue. I am often asked why there needs to be yet another fair promoting art or antiques? Aren't there enough already?

The answer to this question, like many questions, is yes and no. Yes, there are enough shows from the point of view that there are a lot of them and no, there are never enough shows in that if you have the ability to see something at a show, any show at all, that excites you, the show is worthwhile.

This may sound like giving free reign to any and all shows. Some shows seem more like publicity stunts than serious efforts at showing the best of the best. This may be true to some extent. Some shows work harder at finding dealers of a better standard and some shows, no matter how well intentioned, just can't make it.

I would say that the idea behind every show is to create an exposition that is memorable. It isn't about the attendance, though the participating dealers care a lot about that, and it isn't about the charity that might sponsor the event, it is about what you get to see when you enter that show.

One hundred and seventy-one years ago, the Crystal Palace exposition was inaugurated to display the finest of British arts and manufacturing. It was a stunning success. Fairs, shows and expositions have never looked back offering attendees a chance to see amazing things coupled with the ability to learn about them from someone who knows what they are talking about.

This then is the impetus behind every show. Expose the best of the best to people. Make a splash and show off mankind's craft and artistry. It is surprising how intriguing man's abilities are when applied to the arts and crafts. I can guarantee that this year's Spring Show NYC will not disappoint.