Our Story

The Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation (YBAF) was founded in 2019 with a bold vision: to establish Yerevan as a global hub for contemporary art, connecting Armenian artists with the world.

In 2020, YBAF launched its first Yerevan Biennial—a fully digital edition titled “The Time Complex”, an innovative response to the global COVID-19 lockdowns. Despite the challenges, this Biennial featured over 40 international and Armenian artists, attracting a global audience and positioning Yerevan on the contemporary art map.

Building on this success, 2021 saw YBAF’s first physical exhibitions in Yerevan, bringing contemporary art into public and alternative spaces. These events pushed boundaries, fostered dialogue, and engaged new audiences, solidifying the foundation’s role as a key player in Armenia’s contemporary art scene.

Today, YBAF continues to grow—expanding its artist residency programs, launching international collaborations, and preparing for the highly anticipated 2026 Yerevan Biennial.

The mission of YBAF is to foster meaningful cultural exchange, support emerging and established artists, and create a space where innovation, dialogue, and creativity thrive. YBAF is building Armenia’s first permanent
international contemporary art platform. Something that lasts and changes the way the world sees Armenia.