Gwangju International Art Fair Opens on the 23rd, Kicking Off an Art Festival

Until the 26th at Kim Dae-jung Convention Center
94 Galleries from 11 Countries Participate
Expanded Citizen Engagement
Gwangju Aims to Become the Hub of Asian Art Exchange

The 16th Gwangju International Art Fair opened on the 23rd at the Kim Dae-jung Convention Center exhibition hall and began a four-day schedule until the 26th. Photo by Gwangju City

The 16th Gwangju International Art Fair (Art:Gwangju), which has established itself as the largest art market in the Honam region, opened in grand style on the 23rd at the Kim Dae-jung Convention Center, kicking off a four-day art festival that will run until the 26th. The opening ceremony was attended by Gwangju Mayor Kang Gijung, over 500 citizens, and art professionals from Korea and abroad, raising expectations for the revitalization of the local art scene.

This year, Art:Gwangju features 94 galleries from 11 countries, presenting a wide spectrum of contemporary art across 105 booths. Notably, 45 galleries from the Gwangju area are participating-marking the largest local presence to date and demonstrating the growth of the regional art market.

From overseas, SEIYA FINE ART gallery from Japan attracted attention by showcasing works by Takashi Murakami, while Chaiter Art Gallery from Spain introduced pieces by Duvan Lopez, known as the "Picasso of Colombia." Major domestic galleries are also presenting a diverse range of works, from masterpieces by Korean art giants such as Kim Whanki and Nam June Paik to innovative attempts by emerging artists including Lee Lee Nam and HaruK, offering an artistic experience that spans generations.

This year's art fair highlights the depth of art and intergenerational communication through three special exhibitions. The "Breath of Masters" exhibition spotlighted the artistic world of Son Sanggi, an artist from Yeosu, for the first time in Gwangju. The "Propose Exhibition" revealed collections from local collectors, while the "Rising Star Exhibition" featured young artists selected through an open call, presenting new directions for the future of art.

The event also enhanced participatory programs for citizens by expanding convenience spaces such as the Collectors' Lounge and Public Lounge, and by operating free experience booths for families. The newly introduced VIP ticket system this year offers a deeper artistic experience with exclusive benefits, including access to a dedicated lounge and guided docent tours.

Mayor Kang Gijung stated, "Art:Gwangju is a cultural platform created by the collaboration of art, industry, and citizens." He added, "I hope Gwangju will design the city's future through art and rise as the center of Asian art exchange."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.