Art Cologne 18.-22.04

In 2007, the world’s longest-established fair for modern and contemporary art moves into the spring and will take place at the Cologne exhibition center from 18th to 22nd April.

The field of exhibitors includes many internationally renowned galleries. The exhibitors’ stands will present a comprehensive overview of the art of the 20th and 21st centuries — from modernism to the most recent works by contemporary artists. In addition to important works from the post-war period, the exhibitors are increasingly focusing on contemporary art. An integral feature of ART COLOGNE is “Open Space”, a curated outdoor sale exhibition area for contemporary art.

ART COLOGNE reflects an awareness of its traditions, which include in particular the promotion of new art and young artists:

-the work of young artists is promoted by the “New Talents” programme, which is supported by the Federal Commissioner for Cultural and Media Affairs, the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, the City of Cologne and Koelnmesse. A jury will select the “Best of the Best”, and the winner will be honoured with the ART COLOGNE Young Artist Prize, which was presented for the first time in 2005.

-the “New Contemporaries” programme, which is sponsored by the SK Culture Foundation of the Sparkasse KölnBonn, promotes new galleries. The programme allows galleries to take part in ART COLOGNE at reasonable prices.

Supporting and promoting new art and young artists isn’t the only high priority at ART COLOGNE, however. Beginning this year, the fair’s commitment to the entire international art market will be underlined by “Hidden Treasures”, which will be an annual programme intended to introduce as many as six artists who are 40 or older. These “hidden treasures” will be artists whose place on the art market has not yet stabilised , although their work is relevant and important from an art historical standpoint: In short, desirable art at rather attractive prices.

Koelnmesse will be investing in the infrastructure of ART COLOGNE for the benefit of exhibitors and visitors over the next years. Enhancements will be made to the technical and other facilities in the exhibition halls, and to the trade fair catering. In conjunction with an improved navigation system in the ART COLOGNE halls and around the exhibition centre, these changes will play a key role in making the Cologne art fairs even more appealing.