Esther Rewrites the Art Fair Script in a Baltic Beat at New York’s Estonian House

Art fairs often follow a predictable script, but this spring, Esther is flipping the page. Launched by Margot Samel of New York and Olga Temnikova of Tallinn, this new event lands in Manhattan’s historic Estonian House during the buzz of Frieze Week. Rather than sticking to the usual booth-and-sales routine, Esther draws inspiration from collaborative models like Basel Social Club and Condo, spotlighting risk-taking and creative exchange over commercial convention. The fair’s Baltic roots shape its ethos: collaboration is not just a strategy, but a necessity for building community and sharing art across borders. With 25 galleries from cities like Lima, Madrid, London, and Shanghai joining New York locals, Esther turns a storied immigrant landmark into a crossroads for global ideas. In a city known for reinvention, Esther proves that the art fair can be both a gathering and a gentle rebellion. #ArtFairs #EstonianHouseNYC #ContemporaryArt