Yerevan Biennial 2026: A New Chapter in Armenian Contemporary Art
A Vision for the Future
The Yerevan Biennial 2026 marks a pivotal moment in Armenia’s contemporary art landscape. More than an exhibition, it is a catalyst for intellectual and artistic discourse, positioning Yerevan as a regional and global center for contemporary culture. The Biennial will serve as a platform where artists, thinkers, and cultural practitioners engage with pressing societal questions through immersive installations, performances, and critical dialogues.
Curatorial Concept & Thematic Framework
The Yerevan Biennial 2026 responds to urgent global and local questions, exploring the intersections of history, identity, and cultural resilience:
- How can contemporary art reclaim narratives shaped by history and memory?
- In an era of transformation, can art serve as a form of resistance and renewal?
- How do artists navigate the tensions between globalization and local identity?
Rooted in Armenia’s unique cultural experience yet addressing universal themes, the Biennial will provoke critical discourse and inspire artistic innovation. The curatorial vision is built on three foundational pillars: - Public Engagement & Site-Specific Works – Transforming urban landscapes into immersive artistic experiences.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration – Fostering dialogue between art, technology, sound, literature, and new media.
- Historical & Cultural Dialogues – Connecting contemporary artistic practices with Armenia’s rich artistic heritage.
Artists & Participants
The Biennial will feature a curated selection of artists from Armenia and around the world, ensuring a diverse and dynamic exchange of ideas:
- Armenian Contemporary Artists – Showcasing the most innovative and thought-provoking voices in the local art scene.
- International Artists – Inviting globally recognized artists whose work resonates with the Biennial’s themes.
- Emerging Artists & Collectives – Providing a platform for new and experimental artistic practices.
- Academics & Cultural Thinkers – Engaging historians, theorists, and scholars to contextualize and deepen the artistic discourse.
Venues & Locations
The Biennial will unfold across Yerevan, activating both historical and contemporary sites to create dynamic encounters with art:
Latitude Art Space – A 500m² industrial gallery at ArtFactory for large-scale installations and conceptual works.
Public & Alternative Spaces – Yerevan’s streets, squares, and abandoned buildings transformed into arenas for artistic intervention.
Traditional Museums & Cultural Centers – Collaborative programming bridging contemporary and historical narratives.
Public Programs & Educational Initiatives
Beyond its exhibitions, Yerevan Biennial 2026 will offer a robust program designed to engage audiences and foster critical engagement with contemporary art:
- Curatorial Talks & Artist Panels – In-depth discussions with participating artists and curators.
- Workshops & Masterclasses – Knowledge-sharing sessions led by prominent figures in the art world.
- Film Screenings & Performances – Expanding the Biennial’s reach into cinema, dance, and sound art.
- Community Outreach & Art Education – Initiatives designed to make contemporary art more accessible to wider audiences.
Global Partnerships & Cultural Collaborations
Yerevan Biennial 2026 will be part of a broader international conversation through collaborations with major art institutions, biennials, and cultural foundations. Key objectives include:
- Residency Exchanges – Creating opportunities for Armenian and international artists to engage in cross-cultural projects.
- Joint Initiatives with International Biennials – Strengthening Armenia’s presence in the global biennial circuit.
- Institutional Partnerships – Extending the impact of the Biennial beyond its duration through collaborations with leading museums and art spaces.
Impact & Legacy
The Yerevan Biennial 2026 is an investment in Armenia’s cultural future. Its long-term vision is to:
- Establish Yerevan as a key contemporary art hub.
- Provide Armenian artists with greater international visibility.
- Engage new audiences and redefine perceptions of contemporary art.
- Leave a lasting impact on the city’s cultural infrastructure and creative economy.
Conclusion: A New Cultural Horizon
The Yerevan Biennial 2026 is a declaration of artistic freedom, resilience, and ambition. It is a space where creativity challenges conventions, where contemporary art becomes a medium for dialogue, and where Armenia asserts its place on the global cultural stage.
Join us in shaping this new chapter.
The Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation operates across two vibrant spaces:
A1 Art Space – a gallery, café, co-working hub, and showroom in the heart of Yerevan
Latitude Art Space / ArtFactory – an industrial exhibition venue and artist studios for large-scale and experimental work
For all inquiries — exhibitions, events, residencies, collaborations, press, partnerships, or just to say hello — write to us at:
[email protected]
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