This October, Vilnius will become the centre of contemporary art as ArtVilnius’24 marks its 15th anniversary. From 4 to 6 October, the Lithuanian Exhibition and Congress Centre “Litexpo” will host over 300 artists, 67 contemporary art galleries, and 15 cultural institutions from 14 different countries, making it one of the most significant art events in the Baltic region.
Art collectors, curators, and enthusiasts are set to experience a diverse range of contemporary art. This year’s programme will spotlight Nordic artists, bringing fresh perspectives to the Lithuanian art scene. With 20 new galleries participating for the first time, visitors can look forward to a variety of artworks, including painting, photography, installations, kinetic art, and performances.
A Focus on Nordic Art
ArtVilnius’24 places a special emphasis on showcasing art from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, introducing 11 galleries and institutions from these countries. Nordic artists, along with their Lithuanian counterparts, will examine themes such as regional identity, politics, and aesthetics.
“We aim to offer a broader view of the Nordic art scene, which remains relatively unfamiliar to Lithuanian audiences,” says Sonata Baliuckaitė, Artistic Director of ArtVilnius’24. With a focus on diversity and innovation, this year’s fair will feature sculptures, interactive installations, and immersive performances from some of the most exciting talents in contemporary Nordic art.
Introducing New Names to the Fair
One of the highlights of this year’s event is the presence of 20 galleries making their debut at ArtVilnius, representing countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Ukraine, and the United States. In addition, Lithuanian galleries from regions including Panevėžys City Art Gallery and Dusetos Art Gallery will bring local talent to the international stage.
The Origins of ArtVilnius: A Vision Amidst Uncertainty
Reflecting on the founding of ArtVilnius, Diana Stomienė, the fair’s Director and President of the Lithuanian Art Gallerists’ Association, recalls how the idea was met with initial scepticism. “In 2009, when we were establishing ArtVilnius, someone asked the director of the London art fair ‘Frieze’ whether it was a good idea to create an art fair in Vilnius during the economic crisis. His answer was simple: ‘Now is exactly the right time.’ That moment gave us the impetus to continue,” she explains. “The project ‘Vilnius – European Capital of Culture 2009’ provided the historical opportunity to create an ongoing event. For two years, our team worked on building the fair’s model and structure.”
Photo by Greta Skaraitienė
Project Zone: “Agency: About Mice, Stages, and Machines”
This year’s Project Zone, curated by the esteemed art critic Dr Valentinas Klimašauskas, will explore the notion of agency in contemporary art through the theme “Agency: About Mice, Stages, and Machines”. Dr Klimašauskas, one of the curators of Lithuania’s national pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale, will bring together artists from across the globe to discuss how agency, control, and decision-making manifest in today’s cultural context.
The Project Zone will feature both local and international artists, including Igoris Piekura, Gabija Grušaitė, and Ukrainian artist Lesia Vasylčenko, engaging audiences with thought-provoking installations and performances.
Sculpture and Performance Exhibition “Takas”
Curated by Maria Arusoo, Director of the Estonian Centre for Contemporary Art, the “Takas” exhibition will feature 14 selected artists from an open call, focusing on sculptures, installations, and performances. The exhibition will include work by acclaimed Estonian sculptors such as Edith Karlson and Terje Ojaver, as well as Lithuanian artists including Danas Aleksa and Kęstutis Svirnelis.
The performance section promises to be a standout, with live presentations from artists from Finland and Norway, adding a dynamic layer to the fair’s already rich offering.
More Than an Art Fair: A Cultural Celebration
ArtVilnius’24 is not just about showcasing art but is also a vibrant cultural experience. Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of events, including guided tours, art book launches, panel discussions, and meetings with artists. Additionally, the event “Art After Hours” will open the doors to various galleries across Vilnius, offering an exclusive evening of art exploration in the city.
As Baliuckaitė explains, “ArtVilnius’24 offers a platform where art comes to life. Visitors can engage with artists, discover the stories behind their work, and even find pieces to start or expand their own collections.”
A Must-See for Art Collectors and Lovers of Culture
Whether you are an experienced art collector or a casual enthusiast, ArtVilnius’24 offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore contemporary art in all its forms. This fair will provide a unique space to discover new talent, experience diverse artistic practices, and engage with the vibrant global art scene.