The Moment Art Becomes Everyday Life: We invite you to the 17th Gwangju International Art Fair Art Gwangju.
Art that stimulates imagination, shakes emotions, and sometimes suggests a direction for life. Have you ever dreamed of such a special experience in your daily life? Honam’s largest international art fair, the 17th Gwangju International Art Fair “Art Gwangju,” is coming soon.
This festival, where you can experience the vivid flow of the art market and the latest trends in contemporary art all in one place, will go beyond a simple exhibition to become a valuable opportunity to discover artistic value and gain new inspiration.
From renowned galleries at home and abroad to promising emerging artists, and passionate collectors, prepare to awaken your senses in this artistic arena where everyone comes together to showcase and exchange artworks.
What is Art Gwangju, the Heart of Art?
The 17th Gwangju International Art Fair “Art Gwangju” is Honam’s leading international art fair where you can grasp the latest trends in contemporary art at home and abroad and get an overview of the art market. It is also a dynamic forum for artists, enthusiasts, and collectors to communicate and create new value.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Name | The 17th Gwangju International Art Fair “Art Gwangju” |
| Period | October 22 (Thu) ~ October 25 (Sun), 2026 |
| Venue | Kimdaejung Convention Center Halls A, B, C |
| Host | Jeonnam Gwangju Integrated Special City |
| Organizer | Gwangju Cultural Foundation, Art Gwangju |
| Scale | Participation of approx. 110 galleries from 12 countries, domestic and international |
Connecting Gwangju and Jeonnam to the Center of World Art
This fair serves as an important hub for cultural and artistic exchange, connecting the Gwangju and Jeonnam regions with the global art scene. Beyond its role as an art market for buying and selling artworks, it contributes to discovering the intrinsic value of art and the meaning of new creation, and laying the foundation for expanding the base of local art.
Unmissable Art Gwangju 2026 Highlights
This 17th Gwangju International Art Fair “Art Gwangju” will feature approximately 110 galleries from 12 countries, including the Middle East and Europe, presenting the diverse trends of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, and media art. In particular, three themed special exhibitions are key attractions that will further enhance the exhibition value of the art fair.
Special Perspectives, Special Stories – Three Themed Exhibitions
Masterpiece Special Exhibition
- Highlighting Artistic Value An exhibition where you can experience the timeless beauty and depth of art through carefully selected artworks.
Propose Exhibition
- Sharing Collector’s Collections Provides a special opportunity to share the valuable collections of local art enthusiasts with the public, sharing the meaning and value of art ownership.
Rising Star Exhibition
- Discovery of Gwangju and Jeonnam Young Artists This is an opportunity to highlight the unique potential and infinite creative world of young artists from Gwangju and Jeonnam selected through an open call. Get a glimpse of the birth of stars who will lead the future art world.
Diverse Programs to Enjoy Art with All Five Senses
- VIP Docent Tour You can appreciate artworks in depth with expert commentary.
- PUBLIC Docent Tour A customized commentary program for general visitors, helping them understand artworks more easily.
- Kids Art Program Creative art education and experience programs are prepared for children who dream of becoming future artists.
- Art Shop You can enjoy the pleasure of owning art by purchasing artworks and art products from participating artists at the fair.
Why Head to Art Gwangju Now?
The 17th Gwangju International Art Fair “Art Gwangju,” held for only 4 days, is an excellent opportunity to experience the forefront of contemporary art, communicate directly with artists from home and abroad, and discover potentially valuable artworks. If you are looking for new artistic inspiration or are interested in art collection, don’t miss this opportunity.
Operating Hours for Visitors
The operating hours of the art fair vary by day, so it is important to check in advance before your visit to plan a leisurely viewing. Please be sure to check the VIP opening hours and general admission hours.
| Category | Date | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| VIP Opening | 2026.10.22.(Thu) | 14:00 ~ 17:00 |
| General Admission | 2026.10.22.(Thu) | 17:00 ~ 19:00 |
| General Admission | 2026.10.23.(Fri) ~ 2026.10.24.(Sat) | 10:30 ~ 19:00 |
| General Admission | 2026.10.25.(Sun) | 10:30 ~ 18:00 |
The Gwangju International Art Fair is open to everyone who wishes to enrich their lives through art, beyond mere viewing. Enjoy the emotion and special experience that art offers, and create unforgettable autumn memories in Gwangju.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When and where will the 17th Gwangju International Art Fair “Art Gwangju” be held?
The 17th Gwangju International Art Fair “Art Gwangju” will be held from October 22 (Thu) to October 25 (Sun), 2026, at Kim Dae-jung Convention Center Halls A, B, C. As operating hours vary by period, it is recommended to check before your visit.
Q2. What are the main attractions of Art Gwangju 2026?
Approximately 110 domestic and international galleries will participate, showcasing diverse contemporary art including painting, sculpture, and media art. Key attractions include the “Masterpiece Special Exhibition” highlighting selected artworks, the “Propose Exhibition” sharing collector’s collections, and the “Rising Star Exhibition” discovering young artists from Gwangju and Jeonnam.
Q3. Are there any programs to participate in at Art Gwangju?
Yes, a variety of programs are prepared for visitors. You can listen to artwork explanations through VIP/PUBLIC docent tours, and there will also be a Kids Art Program for children and an Art Shop where you can purchase art products.
Q4. What are the characteristics of the galleries and artists participating in Art Gwangju?
Approximately 110 galleries from 12 countries, including the Middle East and Europe, will participate, introducing diverse trends in contemporary art. In particular, the “Rising Star Exhibition” provides a special opportunity to highlight the creative world of young and promising artists from the Gwangju and Jeonnam regions.
Q5. What role does the Gwangju International Art Fair play in local cultural development?
Art Gwangju serves as a hub for cultural and artistic exchange, connecting Gwangju and Jeonnam with the global art scene, and promotes the discovery of artistic value and creation beyond art transactions. Through this, it contributes to expanding the base of local art and establishing a foundation for sustained growth.
