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Five days of contemporary art in Berlin
Every September, Berlin Art Week (BAW) takes over the city for five eventful days, turning its art spaces, galleries and public areas into a playground for art lovers. With over 100 partners, the festival presents exhibitions, performances, screenings, workshops and more, inviting visitors to take a closer look inside Berlin's contemporary art scene.
Berlin Art Week at a glance
The festival was founded in 2012 as an alternative to the defunct art forum berlin, uniting the abc – art berlin contemporary and the Preview Berlin Art Fair under one banner. Today, it is a renowned event that combines exhibitions, panel discussions and public art, with the aim of making contemporary art accessible to everyone.
Throughout the week, the festival showcases both Berlin-based and international artists, bringing works to traditional art spaces as well as open-air and public spaces. From thought-provoking installations to discussions about pressing social issues, Berlin Art Week offers a window into the ever-evolving world of art and its connection to society.
Berlin Art Week highlights
- Renowned artists from across the globe: Berlin Art Week features emerging and established artists from around the world. Past participants include global names like Ai Weiwei and Mary Ellen Mark, alongside rising stars like Sally von Rosen.
- A city-wide festival: Berlin's streets, squares and open-air venues play host to art installations, performances and exhibits, bringing art to life across the city.
- Cutting-edge themes: Each year, Berlin Art Week touches on pressing topics like the role of AI in art, reflections on conflict and responses to societal shifts, making it a powerful commentary on the times.
- Workshops and discussions: Attend panels and workshops with artists, critics and cultural figures, exploring the intersection of art, technology and social issues.
- Behind-the-scenes access: Gain unique insights into the art world, with opportunities to visit artists' studios, participate in open discussions and meet the creatives shaping today's art scene.
Discover Berlin Art Week
Berlin Art Week has gained momentum over the years and continues to attract top-tier artists, critics and art enthusiasts from around the world. The festival underscores the role of art in shaping public spaces and thought, encouraging people to explore how art reflects and influences urban life.
One unique aspect of Berlin Art Week is its commitment to art in public spaces, as installations and performances spill into Berlin's streets and public venues. This creates a dialogue between art and the city's architecture and people, with specific areas like Wedding's Uferhallen serving as dedicated art hubs.
Top tips for Berlin Art Week
- With events scattered across Berlin, it's best to plan ahead, mapping out your preferred galleries and exhibitions in advance.
- Some events, especially those featuring international artists, fill up quickly. Arrive early to secure a spot.
- Many performances and exhibitions take place outdoors. September weather in Berlin is typically mild, but evenings can get chilly, so bring a jacket.
- Berlin Art Week events are spread out, and public transport is the best way to get around. Berlin's underground and S-Bahn network provide easy access to most venues.
- Contact venues ahead of time for details on accessibility.