Photo courtesy Jenni Button
The 20th Century Cincinnati Vintage Modern Expo, one of the top Mid-century showcases in the Midwest, will celebrate its 30th anniversary this weekend. From February 21-23, more than 70 vendors from across the nation will gather in the 40,000-square-foot Sharonville Convention Center to sell their vintage modern goods.
The Vintage Modern Expo, launched in the mid-1990s, is a three-day event that attracts sellers from across the country to showcase their modernist furniture, artwork, and stylish décor. Exhibitors feature an array of decorative objects, housewares, pop culture collectibles, and vintage fashion at various price points, ensuring there is something for every taste and budget. While the inventory is diverse, all products have one thing in common: vintage modern design—style that blends boundary-pushing art, architecture, and fashion from the early 20th century with contemporary features.
Since taking over the expo three years ago from founder Bruce Metzger, sisters and co-owners Jenni and Jess Button have demonstrated their expertise in art and event planning by doubling attendance at the past two events. “It’s really grown to be a show,” says Jenni. “It’s always been a show where we see interest throughout all the generations, which is cool.”
Photo courtesy Jenni Button
Jenni, who spent 12 years working in Chicago art galleries, says she has always been drawn to modern vintage. “These pieces have these clean streamlines, and everything can work with any style,” she says. “I think one of the things I love about it is truly the timelessness of it. To add to that, the high quality of these items has truly been a testament to their overall value.”
Attendees at the expo can look forward to special events and tributes celebrating its 30th anniversary, including a featured exhibit showcasing the Vintage Modern Expo’s history alongside Cincinnati’s own rich, Mid-Century Modern heritage. A 1968 Moto Guzzi V700, provided by Cincinnati’s Cadre Cycle, will be on display.
Further, this year’s expo is partnering with the Sean Kingston Foundation to support young artists through mental health initiatives, according to Jess.
Some popular exhibitors featured in this year’s expo include Architectural Anarchy, a Chicago-based destination for home furnishings and art; GlitterNGold Vintage, a handpicked collection of vintage designer clothing from New Paris, Ohio; and Lydia Lewis, a vintage costume jewelry dealer who was once Miss Kentucky.
As for the future of the 20th Century Vintage Modern Expo, Jenni and Jess plan to stick to their marketing roots: “spreading the word and making sure everybody knows about this.” And for the 40th, 50th, and further anniversaries? The Button sisters tease, “You’ll have to keep coming back to find out.”
Facebook Comments