Conductor, the new art fair hosted by Powerhouse Arts in Brooklyn, opened its doors on Wednesday night with an unexpected buzz. The event, spread across 28 galleries and 20 special projects, attracted over 800 visitors who wandered through installations that spilled out of traditional stands into shared spaces. Among highlights was Retorno (2022) by Juan José Barboza-Gubo, a hand-carved boat reworked with carved acrylic and cement leaves, which drew attention for its intricate design. Elsewhere, Beya Gille Gacha’s sculptural work built from glass beads, wax, fiberglass, concrete, and a living sage tree, stood out for its clear focus even in a crowded room.

The fair is not just about art; it’s part of a larger narrative leading up to the Venice Biennale. Several artists here are set to feature there next week. Khaled Jarrar's compact An Orange Tree with Two Scars (2026) stood out for its restraint, carrying the weight of his broader practice.

Conductor’s inaugural edition is still figuring out its shape but clearly aims to create situations where work, context, and audience merge fluidly. The night ended on a high note with Lido Pimienta's performance in the main hall, setting a tone of inclusivity and creativity that defines the fair.