In an effort to advance the careers of emerging painters, noted artists Ross Bleckner, Peter Halley and Sue Williams have come together to organize Unframed First Look, an opportunity for the New York City art world to get to know undiscovered talent. Leveraging their substantial connections and those of Art Forum, Index Magazine and the Lehmann Maupin Gallery, the artists will gather noted New York gallery owners, collectors and critics to have a "first look" at the artists whose work will be galvanizing the art world in the months and years to come.

Participation will be open to painters in the United States and around the world with the jury (Bleckner, Halley and Williams) selecting the top 30-40 artists to be included in a salon exhibition at Lehmann Maupin. At the opening night cocktail reception, a prize of $5,000 will be awarded to the jury's choice for the best work submitted.