Art Cologne

Art Cologne is one of the oldest and most prestigious art fairs in the world, held annually in Cologne, Germany. Established in 1967 by gallerists Hein Stünke and Rudolf Zwirner, it was originally known as the "Kunstmarkt Köln" (Cologne Art Market). The fair was groundbreaking as it introduced the concept of an organized, commercial art fair accessible to the public, where contemporary artworks could be viewed and purchased directly from galleries. Over time, Art Cologne became a model for other international art fairs like Art Basel.

The fair features a wide range of modern and contemporary art, from post-war masterpieces to emerging artists. Art Cologne’s platform spans multiple disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, video art, and installation. The event attracts galleries, collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts from across the globe, making it a significant marketplace and networking hub in the art world.

Notably, Art Cologne has played a pivotal role in establishing Cologne as an important cultural center in Europe. Throughout its history, the fair has adapted to changing trends in the art market while maintaining its core mission: to provide a high-quality, curated selection of international and local artists.

One of the fair’s highlights is the “New Positions” section, which provides emerging galleries with an affordable space to showcase younger, promising artists, further cementing Art Cologne’s reputation as a launchpad for new talent. Another important feature is its strong commitment to curatorial excellence, with specialized sections focusing on different periods and themes.