We’re thrilled to announce the return of BOOKSMART, Center for Book Arts’ artists’ book fair within Art on Paper, happening September 4–7, 2025 at Pier 36 in New York City. Positioned at the front of the fair and spotlighted as a key activation, BOOKSMART brings together a curated selection of artist publishers and institutions who are redefining the book form. Applications are open now through June 1, 2025, with participants announced by July 1. CBA members are eligible for free participation at various table levels, from our communal sales table to full tables and wall space for higher membership tiers. Not yet a member? Apply anyway—we’ll reach out if you're selected. Don’t miss this chance to share your work with thousands of collectors, curators, and art lovers during New York’s Armory Week!
BOOKSMART is more than just a table at a fair—it’s a rare opportunity to place your work in front of thousands of engaged collectors, curators, and publishers attending Art on Paper, one of the most beloved stops on New York City’s Armory Week circuit. With coverage from The Art Newspaper, Hyperallergic, and countless independent critics, this fair draws serious attention to the intimacy and innovation found in works on paper. BOOKSMART, located at the front of the fair, shines a dedicated spotlight on artists’ books as a vital and evolving art form.
As a participating artist, you’ll be featured alongside leading presses, collectives, and institutions that embrace the book as a site for experimentation, storytelling, and material exploration. Whether your work is tactile and sculptural, conceptual and ephemeral, or deeply rooted in printmaking and design traditions, BOOKSMART provides the perfect platform to connect with new audiences, make meaningful sales, and build lasting professional relationships. The fair also includes thoughtful programming—conversations, readings, talks, and performances—that draw traffic directly to the BOOKSMART area and celebrate the book arts community in full color.
We especially encourage small and independent publishers to apply—those who don’t always have access to large fairs or commercial art world spaces. As part of our mission at Center for Book Arts, we’re committed to creating equitable opportunities for book artists at every stage of their career. With free participation for members, including a no-cost communal table option, we’ve made it easier than ever to be part of this high-visibility event without the usual financial barriers. Apply today and join us in celebrating the book as an artwork in its own right.