Fans of Modernist art, furnishings, fashion, and architecture will converge at the Sharonville Convention Center on the weekend of February 22 & 23, 2020 for the 26th annual 20th Century Cincinnati Show and Sale of Vintage Modern Design. This popular retrospective draws attendees from all over the United States to the Queen City each February with its renowned line-up of 75 regional and national dealers. Patrons come to admire, study, and acquire works by many of the past century’s most significant artists and designers. These masters of Modernism are well represented in the authentic Art Deco, Streamline, Machine Age, Mid-Century Modern, and Op/Pop era treasures that fill the 30,000 square feet exhibit area.
20th Century Cincinnati’s appeal and reputation have been built on its extensive selection of vintage modern furnishings and lighting. The show’s exhibitors also offer an impressive assortment of decorative accessories such as paintings, sculpture, posters, art glass, pottery, dinnerware, and textiles. A popular fashion element is included with several outstanding jewelry, clothing and apparel dealers offering both designer and casual wares. Period pop culture memorabilia adds a fun and playful element to the delight of all in attendance. While some displays cater to advanced collectors by featuring iconic examples of the era’s most important designers and manufacturers, most 20th Century Cincinnati dealers offer a variety of materials at a broad range of price points suitable to every budget. Consequently, hardly anyone leaves 20th Century Cincinnati empty handed. With all merchandise “guaranteed as represented,” every patron can buy with confidence.
20th Century Cincinnati will present Modernist Mud – Ohio Formed and Fired for its 2020 Special Exhibit. Curated and presented by author and ceramic historian Mark Bassett (Cleveland Institute of Art), the display will acknowledge the state’s central role in the art pottery and studio pottery movements in the Modernist era. The exhibit will include examples from Rookwood, Roseville, Cowan, and other Ohio art pottery firms. The studio pottery section will feature the work of natives Clyde Burt (Paulding County), Charles Lakofsky (Bowling Green), and husband/wife team Luke and Rolland Lietzke (Akron). From the Art Deco through the Post-Modern eras, the exhibit will trace Ohio’s influence on the evolution of American ceramic art in the 20th century.
An exclusive two-hour Java Preview will kick-off 20th Century Cincinnati activities at 9:00 A.M. Saturday. Preview passes are $25 in advance (purchase options at the show’s website) or $35 at the door. Preview admission includes an exclusive two-hour shopping period, a complimentary coffee/juice bar, and a full-weekend pass.
Regular show hours on Saturday and Sunday are from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Adult admission is $8.00. Tickets are good for both days. Children under age 18 are admitted for free. Furniture delivery service will be available for hire at the show (local deliveries only).
The Sharonville Convention Center is located at 11355 Chester Road just off I-75 at the Sharon Road exit (exit #15). Detailed directions, area lodging, exhibitor links and other event details are available at 20thcenturycincinnati.com or from manager Bruce Metzger at 513.738.7256.
Urban Art & Antiques 