THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

With a 61 percent increase in dealer participation from the 2004 show, there also will be an expansive amount of stock representing areas such as ceramics, furniture, artwork, jewelry, textiles, decorative accessories and unique pieces of rarity. The Chicago show represents a vast selection of tastes and styles at several price points. Even the young collector or design savvy consumer will be able to view collections that will suit his or her tastes.

'We received great feedback on the changes that we made at last year's show, and we are continuing to build on that growth and excitement in 2005. We believe attendees will be impressed by the variety of antiques and collectibles on display from around the world, with unique items to add to any collection,' said Joan Ulrich, vice president, Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. 'Our unique approach and ability combine people's passion for antiques with design is what sets the Chicago Antiques Fair apart from the rest.'

Pulling from the design resources at The Merchandise Mart, the Chicago Antiques Fair blends interior design spaces with antiques. The showcase will be a hands-on consumer experience, as top designers demonstrate design solutions from blending antiques with a contemporary design style to displaying that one-of-a-kind collection piece.

This year's event also touts the presence of famous designer, author and British Royal Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill. Her keynote address will kick off the 2005 fair and offer effective ways to beautifully combine design with art and antiques.

Call 1-800-677-6278 [ MART ] or see www.merchandisemart.com/chicagoantiques.