In an unexpected development, the Art Dealers Association of America (ADAA) has announced that the Whitney Museum of American Art will be the new beneficiary of its upcoming fair at the Park Avenue Armory this fall. This follows the ADAA’s decision to end its long-standing collaboration with the Henry Street Settlement, a nonprofit offering social services. The partnership shift marks a significant change after the ADAA abruptly canceled the 2025 edition of its Art Show, a key event that had provided the Henry Street Settlement with approximately $1 million in unrestricted funding.
Following the cancellation, the Henry Street Settlement, which supports health care, arts programming, and essential services in the Lower East Side, launched alternative fundraising efforts. In October, the settlement announced a new collaboration with the Independent Art Fair scheduled for the spring. Meanwhile, the ADAA unveiled plans for a new event, titled the ADAA Fair, set for November, initially without a designated charitable partner. Proceeds from this fair’s preview gala will now benefit the Whitney’s educational and artistic programs.
ADAA Board Chair Susan Sheehan stated that the collaboration with the Whitney aligns with their ongoing philanthropic goals to enhance support for the arts. Executive Director Kinsey Robb emphasized that this partnership aligns with the ADAA’s standards while contributing to the broader cultural landscape. ADAA also has a foundation that supports various institutions, including the DuSable Black History Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit.
Whitney Museum Director Scott Rothkopf acknowledged the partnership as a testament to ADAA’s appreciation of the museum’s efforts in promoting American art to diverse audiences. Despite the new collaboration, the museum’s adult admission remains high at $30, with reduced rates for seniors and students. In 2024, the Henry Street Settlement reported $15,098,544 in private contributions, while the Whitney Museum received $39,204,000.
The Henry Street Settlement’s arts division, Abrons Arts Center, is noted for being a comprehensive arts facility within a New York City social services entity. The Whitney Museum has yet to comment on this new development, despite inquiries from Hyperallergic.
