The audacious Dean Projects from Long Island City present new works by Jacob Ouillette, among others, the simple, lusciously coated canvases of abstracted form, layered and complicated by the dueling colors of his crazy palette.33 Bond Gallery meanwhile presented a solo show of sorts for Jeremy Lawson, whose graphite on paper piece filled the wall with a detailed scene of rubble and rock simple titled "S.O.S.," perhaps a portentous wink to the possible overall outcome of the fair and its larger cousins downtown, despite the valiant and tenacious efforts of the exhibitors and fair goers. I asked one gallery owner about her apprehensions, if any, and what she expected in the end to which she conceded that "while I'm nervous, I'm pretty resigned to shitty sales and am happy to be here exhibiting, schmoozing and showing great work."

Reothlisberger + Jahic, documentation detail of "Without You Babe, There Ain't No Us" at Scope. Via Cool Hunting.

Amani Olu, founder and director of the Humble Arts Foundation, had a spacious and well-filled booth as well. While neither a gallery nor an artist project, Olu is exhibiting photos on behalf of his non-profit organization aimed at discovering, financially nurturing and showcasing emerging photographers. What started as an understated and deliciously simple web site with group shows grew into an impressive arts group that now sells limited edition prints, beautiful photography books for collectors and holds regular exhibitions that never underestimate the still arresting and impending power of the photograph. Showing five photographers, Olu's space reminds us that photography is still as intensely rewarding as ever.

Humble Art Foundation director Amani Olu at Scope. Photo: JF.

In addition to the obvious, Scope will hold regular screenings, enthralling panels, loud, noise-ridden performances and a combination of all three, including the not-to-be-missed "Regeneration Hex-You Are Your Own Screen" curated by Genesis Breyer P-Orridge (Saturday 7 March, 12-4pm) all presented by Monkey Town. There's also the "Cheap, Fast and Out of Control" project Annex for sweaty pow-wows and occasional run-ins with surly bar babes. Smaller and more manageable than The Armory and Pulse, Scope, I must admit, was a pleasant surprise and perhaps a reprieve to the madness of Wednesday's opening nights. Well, that and the fact that I'm simply not a universally recognized VIP, as much as I beg to differ. I'm glad Scope's here to fill in any gaps and be a sweet addition to the busy weekend still ahead.