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.
Our Vision
We envision a thriving contemporary art scene in Armenia, where artists are supported, ideas are exchanged, and creative expression flourishes beyond borders.
Our dream is to transform Yerevan into a cultural epicenter, where art is not just exhibited but lived, experienced, and celebrated. Through exhibitions, residencies, and education, we strive to bridge the gap between Armenian artists and the global contemporary art world.
Our Mission
At YBAF, we are committed to:
Empowering Armenian artists – Providing opportunities, visibility, and resources for emerging and established talent.
Connecting Armenia to the world – Fostering international collaborations, residencies, and cross-cultural dialogues.
Expanding art education – Creating programs that educate, inspire, and build the next generation of curators, artists, and cultural leaders.
Building an inclusive artistic community – A space where creativity thrives, barriers are broken, and artistic freedom is celebrated.
Through our Biennial, art spaces, residency programs, and global partnerships, we are shaping the future of contemporary art in Armenia and beyond.