CHICAGO – Celebrating its 15th anniversary, SOFA CHICAGO 2008, the critically acclaimed Sculpture Objects & Functional Art Fair returns to Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, November 7–9, to present work from 100 international galleries and dealers. Hot on the heels of its successful 11th New York show, the 15th Chicago fair also features special exhibits by internationally renowned art museums, arts organizations and artists as well as an extensive lecture series, both included in the admission price.

“With important international galleries showcasing the latest work by established artists like Lino Tagliapietra, Dale Chihuly, Ruth Duckworth and Lenore Tawney, as well as emerging artists, leading museum curators and art advisors, along with both seasoned and novice collectors, see this global event as the pivotal fair for both cutting-edge contemporary work as well as historic material,” said Mark Lyman, founder/director of SOFA CHICAGO and SOFA NEW YORK. “More than ever, that sophisticated art community considers SOFA a vibrant and integral part of Chicago’s respected heritage of contemporary decorative arts and design.”

According to Lyman, SOFA boasts an unrivalled educational component of specially curated on-site exhibitions and lectures so that both long time and novice collectors can appreciate, understand and value the new and historical artistry showcased. He cites the presence of more than 400 artists on the fair floor adding yet another dimension to the collecting experience, such as William Hunter, whose work is now touring the country in a museum retrospective, and Karen LaMonte, who also has achieved numerous museum placements.