Art Chicago
The granddaddy of Chicago art fairs has heard its demise announced prematurely more than once in its 28-year history. An eleventh-hour purchase in 2006 by Merchandise Mart Properties means expectations run high for 2008.

NEXT
With artists handpicked by New York critic/curator Christian Viveros-Faune and Chicago gallerist Kavi Gupta, expect edgy works from spaces promoting the new, fresh, and young.

Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair
These 100-plus world-class dealers pose an especially striking contrast against the Mart’s otherwise contemporary backdrop.

The Artist Project
Do you trust your own eye? This juried show presents works by 300 artists not represented by galleries-offering you the chance to “discover” them yourself.
 
Intuit
This nonprofit provides a center for art produced outside the academic mainstream; more than 30 galleries from across the country participate in its April show.  –ANN WIENS

Artropolis runs Apr 25, 26 11 to 7; Apr 27 11 to 6; Apr 28 11 to 3 (Art Chicago and NEXT until 4). All shows at Merchandise Mart, 320 N Wells. Tickets-$20 per day, $25 multi-day pass-include entry to all five shows and are available at the Mart and artropolischicago.com.