NEW YORK.-Artexpo, the biggest name in international art fairs, is expanding and launching its first annual show in Las Vegas. Building on the 29-year success of Artexpo New York, which takes place every spring, Artexpo Las Vegas provides an exciting opportunity to showcase talent on the West Coast in the fall. Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, easily accessed on Vegas’ famed Strip, will host the inaugural event from September 28 to 30.

For years, many of the fine art world’s largest companies have requested a western venue for Artexpo, and Las Vegas was chosen to conveniently serve the growing number of buyers and exhibitors from the western states. The city’s limitless entertainment options, world-class restaurants, luxurious hotels, convenient access and warm fall temperatures, make Las Vegas a welcome destination for art buyers from California, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas and a long list of international locations. Excitement is mounting in the art world with booths already sold out by eager exhibitors.

“Artexpo Las Vegas offers West Coast art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to visit their favorite publishers, galleries and artists in an exciting location that is closer to home,” said Eric Smith, Vice President of The Art Group, the show’s producer. “We’re thrilled to expand the national reach of Artexpo to provide a dynamic forum for even more talented professionals.”

Art collectors from all walks of life, whether novices or experienced buyers, are expected to attend the show and explore the latest trends in the fine art world; purchasing both traditional and cutting-edge works ranging from original paintings and sculptures to limited-edition lithographs, giclees, animation art, photography and more.

Over 250 exhibitors will display creations by celebrated contemporary artists, such as Pino, Leon Bronstein and Hamilton Aguiar, alongside limited-edition pieces by the “masters”, including Pissarro and Chagall. A big draw card for music fans and collectors will be prized paintings, including some originals, by rock legends Ronnie Wood, Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix. All works are for sale.

Another section of the show expected to be popular among trade and consumers alike is the SOLO Independent Artists’ Pavilion, which will showcase the work of the world’s emerging artists that have yet to sign with a gallery or art dealer. SOLO is the ultimate venue for artists to be discovered, not only by gallery owners and art publishers, but by collectors and enthusiasts in search of something unique.

“Nowhere else on the West Coast will you find so many artists under one roof,” said Jack Solomon, respected owner of the national S2 Art Group, based in Las Vegas. “Most people don’t realize Vegas is home to a thriving art scene, but there is a huge audience and hunger for arts coming from both the rapidly expanding local population as well as the 40 million annual tourists.”

Artexpo Las Vegas builds on the success of the world’s largest fine and popular art fair, Artexpo New York, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary in February, 2008 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City. Over its storied history, Artexpo has helped propel the careers of some of the finest American artists of the 20th century, including Andy Warhol, Peter Max, Robert Indiana, Leroy Neiman and Robert Rauschenberg.

Tickets for Artexpo Las Vegas are available the day of the show at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, or at www.artexpos.com. The show is open to the public on Friday, September 28 from 12-6pm, Saturday, September 29 from 11am to 6pm, and Sunday, September 30 from 11am to 5pm. Adult tickets for Artexpo Las Vegas are $10 a day; $5 for seniors and students. Children under 12 are free.