viennacontemporary: Vienna's annual art fair celebrates its anniversary
From September 12 to 15, Hall D of Messe Wien will be transformed into a center of art: viennacontemporary will once again present a diverse selection of national and international artists. In addition to the established exhibitions, this year the fair is exclusively presenting the new CONTEXT section, curated by Pernilla Holmes.
This fall, viennacontemporary opens its doors for the 10th time. In keeping with its anniversary, the coveted art fair will take place this time at Messe Wien, Hall D. Austria's leading fair for contemporary art with over 100 galleries from 22 countries is known for its unique focus on the up-and-coming scenes of Central and Eastern Europe, curated special shows and its dense supporting program with guided tours, talks and top-class events. For the tenth year in a row, the art fair invites thousands of professionals, artists, collectors and art enthusiasts to international encounters to experience the rich diversity of contemporary art.
Francesca Gavin takes over the role of Artistic Director
In addition to the new location, viennacontemporary also welcomes a new artistic director. Francesca Gavin is a long-time journalist and sought-after curator and brings a breath of fresh air and passion to Vienna's art scene. With over 10 years of experience and major international exhibitions such as “The New Psychedelica” in Eindhoven, “E-Vapor-8” in New York and “The Dark Cube” at the Palais de Tokyo, Paris, she has also been artistic director of viennacontemporary since last year.
In an exclusive interview in the current fall issue of L'Officiel Austria, Francesca Gavin talks about the expectations of the art fair as follows:
We are not trying to imitate Basel or Frieze; our fair is more inviting and still has a high standard. Many of our galleries are among the best in the world. We offer a more intimate and accessible atmosphere. Fairs are great places to discover art, especially if you feel a little unsure about visiting galleries and want to learn more. I've learned a lot from visiting art fairs over the years.
Focus on current topics and young talents
With special programs such as STATEMENT, which this year is dedicated to the important topic of ENERGY; CONTEXT, which gives overlooked artists of the late 20th century the attention they deserve; and ZONE1, which promotes young artists with a strong connection to Austria internationally, the fair brings the contemporary art world into a dialogue with current socio-political issues. Together with numerous parallel art festivals and important exhibition openings in Vienna's leading cultural institutions, viennacontemporary makes Vienna the center of the international art scene in September.
You can browse through the detailed program here.
Credits: viennacontemporary PR
