Today, we are thrilled to chat with Clélie Debehault and Liv Vaisberg, the co-founders of COLLECTIBLE. They are here to share with us the inspiration and passion fueling their journey as they establish their fair in the Financial District of New York City and build bridges between America and Europe.

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COLLECTIBLE: What inspired COLLECTIBLE to expand its presence to New York City, and how does this decision align with the fair's overarching vision and goals?

Clélie Debehault & Liv Vaisberg : COLLECTIBLE has always been committed to fostering a dynamic exchange between contemporary design, art, and craftsmanship. New York City's rich cultural landscape and its status as a global hub for creativity and innovation perfectly align with our vision of creating a platform that transcends boundaries and celebrates diverse perspectives. There seems to be a parallel renewal of dynamism on both sides of the ocean with a wealth of new galleries that have emerged since the lockdowns and tremendous creativity in the field of collectible design. By expanding to NYC, we aim to further amplify the dialogue surrounding collectible design and provide a unique space for designers, galleries, interior architects, and enthusiasts to connect and explore new ideas.

C: Could you share insights into when the idea to expand to New York City originated and the strategic considerations that led to choosing NYC over other prominent cities in the United States?

CD & LV: The idea to expand to New York City has been brewing for quite some time. NYC was actually one of the first trips we took before setting up the fair and the last one before lockdowns. Then many galleries and designers we met kept telling us to set up COLLECTIBLE in NYC, as there were no other events similar to ours. Despite the world shutting down due to the difficulties we all know, the idea persisted in our minds. We recognize the immense potential of the city as a fertile ground for artistic expression and collaboration. NYC is strategically located between trending LA, vibrant Chicago, sunny Miami, and Europe. It remains a solid place with global influence, gathering a forward-looking crowd and being easily accessible. When we discovered WSA, we were excited by how the building resembled the iconic Vanderborght building in Brussels, with the same pillars and vibe but offering a much better view of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River. It aligns with our vibes and ambitions.

C: With the expansion to New York City, will COLLECTIBLE be featuring primarily European exhibitors, or can we expect a blend of European and American talents? How do you envision this mix contributing to the cultural exchange and dialogue within the art and design community?

CD & LV: Our aim is to curate a diverse lineup of exhibitors that reflects the rich tapestry of talent from both Europe and the United States. We find the creativity on both sides of the ocean extremely strong at the moment. By showcasing a blend of European and American creatives, we hope to facilitate meaningful cultural exchange and foster collaboration across borders, enriching the experience for both participants and visitors alike.

C: As COLLECTIBLE prepares to make its mark in the vibrant art scene of New York City, how do you perceive the city's unique characteristics and dynamics influencing the fair's atmosphere and engagement with both local and international audiences?

CD & LV: New York City's dynamic and ever-evolving art scene is both inspiring and invigorating. Its melting pot of cultures, ideas, and influences creates a fertile ground for creativity to thrive. Regarding collectible design specifically, we've noticed numerous new initiatives, galleries, designers, and interior decorators emerging. As COLLECTIBLE enters this vibrant landscape, we anticipate that the city's unique characteristics will infuse the fair with a sense of energy and excitement, attracting a diverse audience of art and design enthusiasts from around the world. We see NYC as not only a destination but also a catalyst for new connections, collaborations, and discoveries, further enriching the dialogue surrounding collectible design on a global scale.