BAD+ Bordeaux Art and Design 2024 © Pierre Vallet
review

Art Across Borders: 14 Unmissable Art Fairs in 2025. From Delhi, Dubai, and Marrakech to Romania and Vienna.

From the historic MARX HALLE in Vienna to the majestic Alps of St. Moritz, the art world spans continents, with its events serving as a gateway to celebrating creativity, cultural diversity, and innovative artistic formats. Whether highlighting the rich tapestry of African contemporary art, the cutting-edge synergy of  Nordic innovation, or the enduring appeal of photography and design, the 2025 fairs underscore the boundless potential of artistic expression. 

Dive into the richly dynamic exploration of multimedia art, design, and architecture. Discover both emerging and established talents through diverse platforms embracing global and regional perspectives. Explore the 14 must-visit art fairs taking place over the next six months.

1-54 Marrakech: Showcasing the diversity of African Contemporary Art

The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is set to make its return to Marrakech, Morocco, from January 30 to February 2. This remarkable event will take place at the prestigious venues of La Mamounia and DaDa, offering a unique platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their work. Recognised as the first and only international fair dedicated exclusively to contemporary African art, 1-54 derives its name from the 54 countries that make up the African continent, embodying the diversity and creative vitality of the region.

Marrakech, a city celebrated for its rich cultural tapestry, provides a fitting backdrop for the fair. Beyond the main exhibitions, attendees can look forward to an array of events and gatherings spread across the city, designed to highlight and celebrate its vibrant artistic landscape. With more than 30 exhibitors from 14 countries, including 13 galleries from the African continent, the fair promises an unparalleled exploration of imaginative talent and cultural richness. The selection of galleries spans the globe, uniting local and international audiences under a shared appreciation for contemporary African art.

Courtesy of the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair. Photo by Michael Huard.
Courtesy of the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair. Photo by Michael Huard.

The 2025 edition of 1-54 in Marrakech will also include a compelling solo presentation of Aliou Diack‘s work, brought by Space Un, a newly established arts and culture venue in Tokyo. Space Un is dedicated to promoting contemporary African art and fostering cultural exchanges between Japan and African nations. Diack’s art, deeply inspired by his connection to nature and his environment, reflects the fair’s dedication to celebrating artistic narratives that resonate on a global scale.

The fair will offer panels, workshops, and other engaging events aimed to reinforce 1-54’s role as more than just an art fair—it is a celebration of the contemporary African art scene and its dynamic diaspora. As one of three annual editions, alongside its counterparts in London and New York, the Marrakech edition continues to cement 1-54’s reputation as a leading platform for the global recognition of African art.

“Anastomosis” by Aliou Diack at Space Un, Japan, Photo by Masaki Ogawa.
“Anastomosis” by Aliou Diack at Space Un, Japan, Photo by Masaki Ogawa.

India Art Fair Delhi: A celebration of South Asian art and culture

From February 6 to 9, the NSIC Exhibition Grounds in New Delhi will host the 16th edition of the India Art Fair (IAF), reaffirming its status as South Asia’s premier platform for modern and contemporary art. This year’s edition features a record 116 exhibitors, including leading Indian and international galleries such as Carpenters Workshop Gallery, Galleria Continua, Lisson Gallery, and David Zwirner.

“India Art Fair (IAF) is the leading platform to discover modern and contemporary art from South Asia, offering a unique access point to the region’s thriving cultural scene”, states the fair’s mission. By bringing together galleries, artists, private foundations, arts charities, national institutions, and cultural events, IAF fosters both domestic and international engagement with South Asia’s cultural history and innovation.

India Art Fair facade designed by Sameer Kulavoor. Installation view 2019. Courtesy of India Art Fair.
India Art Fair facade designed by Sameer Kulavoor. Installation view 2019. Courtesy of India Art Fair.

A key highlight of this year’s event is the expanded design section, featuring new collaborations and a curated showcase of young Indian designers. Beyond its exhibitions, IAF is deeply committed to arts education. The fair provides spaces for emerging galleries and arts organisations, hosting an extensive programme of events, including educational initiatives, artist commissions, and pop-up programmes aimed at increasing global audiences for Indian art.

With its comprehensive and collaborative approach, the India Art Fair Delhi 2025 promises to be a vibrant celebration of South Asian art and culture, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation while solidifying its role as a global hub for artistic excellence.

Visitors at Pichvai Tradition and Beyond booth at India Art Fair. Courtesy India Art Fair.
Visitors at Pichvai Tradition and Beyond booth at India Art Fair. Courtesy India Art Fair.

NOMAD St. Moritz: Where art, design, and architecture converge

Nestled in the heart of Switzerland’s Alps, NOMAD St. Moritz returns for its 14th edition from February 20 to 23, transforming the former Klinik Gut into a dynamic platform where contemporary art and design come together. Known for its nomadic concept, NOMAD offers a fresh perspective on the art fair experience, hosting each edition in a different architectural location. This edition promises to be a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Switzerland’s alpine landscape. The venue, a construction site reimagined, promises an immersive, site-specific exhibition that blends art, design, and the surrounding environment.

St. Moritz, Photo Depasquale + Maffini
St. Moritz, Photo Depasquale + Maffini

Attendance is by invitation only, ensuring an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. Visitors range from interior designers and architects to art professionals and curious enthusiasts, all drawn by NOMAD’s reputation for presenting the unexpected. The fair’s curated offerings include furniture, decorative arts, and paintings, catering to those seeking pieces that transcend the conventional.

This year’s transformation of the former Klinik Gut into an international platform exemplifies NOMAD’s innovative spirit. The venue’s immersive architecture and layered presentation create a space that encourages deeper engagement with the works on display. By bringing art, architecture, and design into conversation, NOMAD provides a setting where visitors can experience and acquire exceptional pieces within a context that enhances their significance.

NOMAD St. Moritz 2024 Courtesy of NOMAD St. Moritz

The SPARK Art Fair Vienna: Shaping the future of the art fair landscape

In the heart of the Austrian capital, from March 21 to 23, the SPARK Art Fair Vienna returns to the historic MARX HALLE for its fourth edition. Since its inception in 2021, SPARK has carved a niche in the global art scene by reimagining what an art fair can be, setting new standards for quality, accessibility, and innovation. This year’s event promises to continue its mission of spotlighting young talents alongside established artists, fostering a dialogue that bridges generations and artistic movements.

SPARK Art Fair 2024. Courtesy of the SPARK art fair.
SPARK Art Fair 2024. Courtesy of the SPARK art fair.

One of SPARK’s defining features is its exclusive focus on solo presentations, a strategy that sets it apart from traditional art fairs. This approach not only provides a platform for in-depth exploration of individual artists but also lends itself seamlessly to digital storytelling. As the fair’s director notes, “The concept of solo-presentations is ideal for online storytelling, where we can go into depth about the artist and the works, raising interest before, during, and after the fair”.

SPARK’s dual commitment to analogue and digital experiences ensures that art enthusiasts worldwide can engage with its offerings. Whether visiting in person or exploring through its innovative digital format, audiences can delve into a curated selection of international art, spanning post-war masterpieces, cutting-edge new media, and emerging trends. The fair’s emphasis on quality and strategy positions it as a forward-thinking hub that addresses the evolving challenges of the art market. A vibrant celebration of artistic vision, community, and the enduring power of art.

SPARK Art Fair 2024. Courtesy of the SPARK art fair.
SPARK Art Fair 2024. Courtesy of the SPARK art fair.

Art Paris: A regional and cosmopolitan showcase of artistic discovery

From April 3 to 6, the Grand Palais in Paris will host the 27th edition of Art Paris, a fair celebrated for its unique blend of regional and cosmopolitan identities. Featuring 170 exhibitors from 25 countries, the event serves as a vibrant platform for artistic discovery, with 60% of participating galleries hailing from France and the rest representing international perspectives. This balance underscores Art Paris’ mission to champion diverse voices while remaining deeply rooted in its local context.

Art Paris 2025 will explore two distinct themes, each offering a fresh lens on contemporary art. The first, “Immortal: A Focus on Figurative Painting in France,” is led by writer and independent curator Amélie Adamo alongside Numa Hambursin, the general director of MO.CO. (Montpellier Contemporain). Building on their prior collaboration in 2023, the duo will present a new analysis of French figurative painting by selecting thirty artists from the exhibiting galleries. Their exploration will consider historical contexts and juxtapose artists across generations. 

Art Paris 2024 © Marc Domage
Art Paris 2024 © Marc Domage

The second theme, “Out of Bounds,” is curated by independent exhibition curator Simon Lamunière. This section will spotlight 18 international artists chosen from the participating galleries, examining contemporary creation through the lenses of multiethnicity, hybridisation, and cultural intersections. Questions of origins, gender, kinship, history, and geography will take centre stage, culminating in a themed visit and a comprehensive catalogue highlighting each artist’s contributions.

This year’s edition also introduces exciting new developments, including an expanded sector dedicated to young galleries and emerging artists, as well as a newly created space focusing on design and contemporary decorative arts. These additions reflect Art Paris’s ongoing commitment to innovation and its support of the next generation of creative talent.

Art Paris 2024 © Marc Domage
Art Paris 2024 © Marc Domage

Art Dubai: Bridging global art movements and regional histories

From April 18 to 20, Art Dubai will once again transform Madinat Jumeirah into a vibrant hub of creativity and dialogue. Known for its commitment to fostering global perspectives, Art Dubai offers a diverse programme spanning four distinct sections: Contemporary, Modern, Bawwaba, and Digital. Each of these includes major artist commissions, performances, talks, workshops, and educational initiatives.

Art Dubai Contemporary showcases cutting-edge contemporary art from across the globe, with an emphasis on artists and works from emerging regions. Bawwaba—meaning “gateway” – focuses on meticulously curated solo presentations of artworks created within the last year or specifically for the fair. Art Dubai Digital shines a spotlight on trailblazers in the digital art world, featuring innovative artists, collectives, galleries, and platforms that are shaping the future of the medium.

Art Dubai 2024 Courtesy of Art Dubai .
Art Dubai 2024 Courtesy of Art Dubai .

With around 120 contemporary, modern, and digital galleries from over 40 countries, Art Dubai’s 2025 will see particularly strong representation from artists and art centres across the Middle East, the African continent, and West and South Asia, highlighting the fair’s dedication to amplifying voices from less-represented geographies.

Art Dubai’s dedication to fostering meaningful dialogue extends beyond the exhibition spaces. Each year, the fair collaborates with international academics and art historians to curate specific sections, creating opportunities for untold regional art histories to engage with broader global movements. This commitment to fostering cultural exchange and innovation ensures Art Dubai remains not only a celebration of artistic excellence but also a vital forum for critical conversations about the future of art.

Art Dubai 2024 Courtesy of Art Dubai .
Art Dubai 2024 Courtesy of Art Dubai .

Art Brussels: A gateway to discovery and artistic synergy

The iconic Art Deco Brussels Expo will host the 41st edition of Art Brussels from April 24 to 27. One of Europe’s most prestigious contemporary art fairs was founded in 1968 and held annually since 1997. Art Brussels has maintained its reputation as a discovery fair, showcasing a vibrant mix of established and emerging talents. Each year, it brings together over 150 contemporary art galleries from across the globe, solidifying its role as a key platform for artistic innovation and exchange.

Art Deco Brussels Expo, Photo © David Plas
Art Deco Brussels Expo, Photo © David Plas

The fair’s unique identity is reflected in its carefully curated sections – DISCOVERY spotlights young, emerging, and lesser-known artists, and focuses on recent works (2017-2020), providing a launchpad for new voices in contemporary art. PRIME features established artists, bridging the modern and contemporary art worlds. REDISCOVERY, dedicated to underappreciated or overlooked 20th-century artists, presents fresh perspectives on historical contributions to art. SOLO, ambitious single-artist presentations, offers visitors an in-depth exploration of an artist’s practice, with entire stands or extensions dedicated to their work. INVITED highlights the evolving art market, welcoming young and up-and-coming galleries making their debut at Art Brussels.

Art Brussels continues to bridge the worlds of modern, contemporary, and emerging art. Whether it’s through its innovative sections or its commitment to cultivating a sense of community, the 2025 edition promises to be a landmark event that champions artistic discovery and dialogue on a global stage.

Art Deco Brussels Expo, Photo © David Plas
Art Deco Brussels Expo, Photo © David Plas

Market Art Fair: Expanding horizons in the Nordic art scene

Nestled in the historic Liljevalchs konsthall on Stockholm’s picturesque Djurgården island, Market Art Fair returns from May 15-18 with a groundbreaking twist. 

Over nearly two decades, Market Art Fair has established itself as a premier Nordic contemporary art fair, offering curated selections of solo, duo, and group exhibitions featuring some of the most dynamic artists from Scandinavia and beyond. Recognised as a vital hub for the area’s art industry, the fair has consistently provided a platform for leading galleries alongside international galleries presenting talent from this part of the world. This year, for the first time since its beginnings in 2006, the fair opens its doors to international galleries to showcase global artists, signalling the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Market, reflecting its commitment to evolving with the global art market.

Liljevalchs konsthall 2024. Courtesy of Market Art Fair.
Liljevalchs konsthall 2024. Courtesy of Market Art Fair.

The venue, Liljevalchs konsthall, is an integral part of the Market’s distinctive charm. Located just a short walk from Stockholm’s city centre, this century-old art space first opened its doors in 1916 with exhibitions that featured some of Sweden’s most esteemed artists. The venue offers an intimate and uniquely atmospheric setting, its historic architecture and light-filled galleries providing the perfect backdrop for forging meaningful connections between artists, collectors, and visitors.

Market Art Fair 2025 will maintain its signature boutique format, prioritizing quality and curation over size. This year’s edition not only aims to showcase a broader array of artistic voices but also promises to uphold its reputation as a trusted meeting point for the art community. As such, the Market is set to enhance its role as a dynamic marketplace and cultural event, blending regional tradition with global innovation.

Market Art Fair 2024, Courtesy of Market Art Fair.
Market Art Fair 2024, Courtesy of Market Art Fair.

Photo London: Celebrating a decade of photography excellence

The grandeur of Somerset House will once again host Photo London from May 15 to 18, marking its 10th edition as a cornerstone event for photography enthusiasts worldwide, promising an unforgettable experience that reflects both its storied past and its commitment to shaping the future of photography. 

This special anniversary edition of Photo London will aim to honour a decade of the fair’s success while celebrating the enduring traditions of photography and exploring the medium’s evolving boundaries. The fair invites art lovers, collectors, and creatives to immerse themselves in this remarkable convergence of history, tradition, and groundbreaking artistic exploration. Visitors can look forward to an exceptional showcase of works, ranging from historic and vintage photography to fresh and innovative perspectives that challenge the conventions of the art form.

Images © Graham / Finn Carlow
© Graham / Finn Carlow

A highlight of the fair is its Discovery section, which shines a spotlight on emerging galleries and artists. Additionally, each edition of Photo London features a unique Public Programme comprising special exhibitions, installations, and the announcement of several prestigious awards, including the coveted Photo London Master of Photography Award. During the fair, major institutions, auction houses, galleries, and creative communities across London – particularly in the East End and South London – present a variety of Satellite Events, fostering a dynamic network of photographic talent and innovation.

© Graham / Finn Carlow
© Graham / Finn Carlow

RAD Art Fair: A collaborative vision for Romanian art

From May 22 to 25, the RAD Art Fair will return to Caro Bucharest for its third edition, bringing together some of Romania’s most dynamic contemporary art spaces. This collaborative initiative strengthens the foundations of the Romanian art scene, offering visibility to its artists and galleries while fostering a robust and sustainable art market for the next decade.

RAD Art Fair celebrates the diversity of Romanian art and design, presenting work from leading galleries across Bucharest, Cluj, Iași, Timișoara, and beyond, with notable contributions from Chișinău, Vienna, and Frankfurt. By uniting these creative hubs, RAD builds a vibrant community around contemporary art, enriching the cultural fabric of Romania and positioning it firmly within the broader regional and international discourse.

RAD 2024, Courtesy of RAD Art Fair.
RAD 2024, Courtesy of RAD Art Fair.

The fair features specialised programmes, including RAD DESIGN, which highlights innovation in art and design; RAD SCULPTURES PARK, a showcase of large-scale sculptural works; and RAD CURATORIAL, an annual invitation-based initiative that fosters groundbreaking curatorial practices. This curatorial programme emphasises open and authentic exchanges, focusing on the continued growth of Romania’s art scene and its integration into global conversations.

As the first initiative to bring together Romania’s leading contemporary art spaces, the RAD Art Fair is more than just an exhibition—it’s a statement of collaboration and vision. It amplifies the Romanian art scene’s voice, strengthens its connections to the international art community, and lays the groundwork for a flourishing cultural future.

RAD 2024, Courtesy of RAD Art Fair.
RAD 2024, Courtesy of RAD Art Fair.

BAD+: Bordeaux’s celebration of art, design, and the art of living

From May 23 to 25, Bordeaux’s Hangar 14 in the Chartrons district will host the fourth edition of BAD+ (Bordeaux Art + Design), an event where art, design, and the art of living converge. With over 55 French and international galleries participating, this annual fair continues to bring modern and contemporary art and design to the forefront.

BAD+ places a strong emphasis on integrating art and design into everyday life, celebrating diversity and supporting the creative energy of emerging talents. True to its mission, the fair offers a vibrant mix of modern and contemporary artworks and design objects presented by established and emerging galleries. The event also highlights its commitment to nurturing contemporary creation with its unique artist residency programme. Through this initiative, artists from participating galleries collaborate with partner châteaux to create new works, which are showcased to collectors and visitors during the fair.

BAD+ Bordeaux Art and Design 2024 © Pierre Vallet
BAD+ Bordeaux Art and Design 2024 © Pierre Vallet

Adding depth to the experience, BAD+ curates an exclusive itinerary called Entre’vues, tailored for collectors and enthusiasts of art and the Bordeaux lifestyle. This curated journey not only introduces visitors to the artistic highlights of the fair but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage and regional charm of Bordeaux. Complementing this is “The Art in the City” programme, a citywide exploration of artworks that integrates Bordeaux’s iconic cultural venues and institutions. Developed in collaboration with both public and private partners, this initiative extends the reach of BAD+ beyond Hangar 14, engaging the entire region.

BAD+ 2025 promises to be more than an art fair; it’s a celebration of creativity, culture, and the Bordeaux way of life. By bridging regional authenticity with a global artistic vision, BAD+ continues to solidify its place as a key player in the art and design world.

BAD+ Bordeaux Art and Design 2024 © Pierre Vallet
BAD+ Bordeaux Art and Design 2024 © Pierre Vallet

MoBU: A dynamic hub for contemporary art in Bucharest

From May 28 to June 1, the third edition of MoBU will take place at the Central Pavilion of Romexpo in Bucharest, Romania. This vibrant fair brings together a diverse selection of galleries, artist-run spaces, and independent artists, establishing itself as a key player in the international art market. 

MoBU is a unique platform where collectors, art professionals, and the general public can explore a wide spectrum of contemporary art. The event embraces traditional artistic approaches alongside experimental and research-driven practices, creating a rich tapestry of visual and performative expression. From heritage artists with historical significance to emerging young creatives and street artists, MoBU offers a comprehensive showcase of Romania’s diverse art scene, complemented by international contributions.

The fair also fosters dynamic engagement through its inclusive programming, which features artist-run spaces, video screenings, and performative activities. A series of artist talks and roundtable discussions further enrich the experience, offering attendees a chance to delve into the creative processes and broader cultural conversations shaping contemporary art today.

MoBU art Fair, 2024, courtesy of the Fair.
MoBU art Fair, 2024, courtesy of the Fair.

Art Basel in Basel: The heartbeat of the global art scene

The pinnacle event in the global art calendar, Art Basel in Basel, is set to take place from June 19 to 22. Known for bringing together the international art world, the fair features over 200 leading galleries and showcases more than 4,000 artists from five continents. Alongside the main event, numerous high-quality exhibitions and satellite fairs occur throughout Basel and its surrounding region, transforming the area into a vibrant hub for contemporary art during this much-anticipated art week.

Art Basel in Basel 2024. Courtesy Art Basel.
Art Basel in Basel 2024. Courtesy Art Basel.

Art Basel’s carefully curated sectors highlight a wide range of artistic expressions. From monumental installations to solo presentations, the fair offers an unparalleled platform for discovery. This year’s show will feature over 300 prominent galleries representing North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, exhibiting works by contemporary masters as well as the newest generation of rising stars. Visitors can explore an extraordinary array of art forms, including sculptures, sketches, installations, photographs, videos, and major artistic debuts.

Art Basel’s presence extends beyond its Swiss origins, with editions in Hong Kong, Paris, and Miami Beach that have established its reputation on three continents. However, the Basel fair remains the heart of this international phenomenon. Art Basel in Basel is a cornerstone of the contemporary art world and a celebration of creativity on a global scale.

Art Basel in Basel 2024. Courtesy Art Basel.
Art Basel in Basel 2024. Courtesy Art Basel.

Liste Art Fair Basel: A platform for emerging talent

Liste Art Fair Basel returns to Messe Basel from June 16 to 22, celebrating its 30th edition as a key event in the art world. Liste stays committed to its vision of discovering and supporting emerging galleries and artists who shape the present of contemporary art. The fair offers a unique platform that fosters diversity in the positions represented, while also expanding the spectrum of genres and media on display. With its focus on innovation and experimentation, the fair is widely regarded as a launchpad for artists and galleries stepping onto the global stage for the first time. 

Liste Art Fair Basel 2024, Courtesy Liste Art Fair Basel.
Liste Art Fair Basel 2024, Courtesy Liste Art Fair Basel.

In 2025, the fair will debut a reimagined spatial concept that draws inspiration from architectural elements of previous years, reinterpreting them for the present. The layout enhances discovery, offers fresh perspectives, and encourages active participation in the fair’s diverse accompanying program, all while highlighting the galleries’ presentations. Liste’s accessible approach is a defining feature. By keeping booth fees intentionally low, the fair enables galleries with limited resources to participate, ensuring a vibrant and diverse mix of perspectives. This commitment to inclusivity has made Liste an essential counterpart to its larger and more established neighbour, Art Basel. While Art Basel showcases art world heavyweights, Liste offers a space for fresh, bold, and daring artistic voices, complementing the broader Art Week in Basel.

This year’s edition will feature over 90 galleries presenting more than 90 curated solo exhibitions. Visitors can expect to encounter groundbreaking works and unearth new talent that push the boundaries of contemporary art. In its milestone 30th year, Liste continues to solidify its reputation as a fair where discovery, innovation, and creative possibility converge.

Liste Art Fair Basel 2024, Courtesy Liste Art Fair Basel.
Liste Art Fair Basel 2024, Courtesy Liste Art Fair Basel.

About The Author

Patrycja
Poznańska

Musician, producer and art enthusiast, passionate about any and all forms of experimental art. Student of Culture and Media management at Jagiellonian University in Kraków and alum of the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York.

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