The annual international art exhibition Viennacontemporary is returning for 2024, uniting top artists, gallery owners, curators, and collectors from around the world. Taking place from September 12-15 at the iconic Kursalon Vienna, this premier event will highlight the significant role of art in contemporary global issues. This year’s exhibition features a special project titled “The Color of Energy,” which delves into themes of energy, transformation, and the interplay between art and the environment.

Viennacontemporary continues to uphold its reputation as a leading platform for diverse artistic practices that broaden our understanding of contemporary art. The exhibition will serve as a venue for cultural exchange, focusing on art projects that address pressing social, political, and cultural challenges.

Key Highlights of Viennacontemporary 2024:

• Global Participation: More than 60 galleries from Europe, America, and Asia will showcase works by both emerging and established artists, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in unique artistic perspectives from various cultural backgrounds.
• ZONE1 Section: This traditional platform for young Austrian artists will spotlight new talents and experimental approaches in contemporary art.
• Discussion Program: A series of panel discussions and lectures will address contemporary art, collecting, and the role of artists in today’s society, inviting dialogue on the impact of technology and global changes.

Leading Exhibition: “The Color of Energy”

• Dates: September 12 – November 24, 2024  
• Venues: Viennacontemporary (Messe Wien, Hall D, Vienna, Austria) and Salzburger Kunstverein (Salzburg, Austria)

In collaboration with Salzburger Kunstverein, Viennacontemporary 2024 will present a unique exhibition titled “The Color of Energy” as part of the VTC STATEMENT: ENERGY program, supported by the ERSTE Foundation. This exhibition consists of two interconnected parts running from September 12 to November 24, 2024.

Part One: Viennacontemporary (September 12–15, 2024):

The first section will be held at the Viennacontemporary fair, exploring the links between socio-political phenomena and contemporary art. It provides a platform for dialogue among artists, curators, and experts, discussing issues like energy crises and climate change.

This section will focus on the aesthetic and emotional aspects of energy, examining its usage and representation in a global context, particularly in light of the energy crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts.

Part Two: Salzburger Kunstverein (September 20 – November 24, 2024)

The second part will continue the exploration of energy and its societal impact at the Salzburger Kunstverein, offering deeper insights into the relationship between energy, nature, and humanity. The curatorial concept will highlight the various chromatic aspects of energy, showcasing how it influences and colors our world.

Chromatic Context: A Narrative Through Colors:

“The Color of Energy” will utilize colors to visualize different aspects of global energy phenomena, with a palette that reflects conflicts and innovations in the energy sector. The color spectrum encourages viewers to reflect on energy’s impact on the modern world and consider future implications.

Expanded Program: Nexus Thinking — Energy, Future, Sustainability:

A series of panel discussions titled Nexus Thinking — Energy, Future, Sustainability will take place on September 13 at 14:30 and 15:30, featuring international experts discussing how contemporary art can inspire new approaches to sustainable development and energy futures.

Curated by Mirela Baciak, known for her innovative art projects focused on energy and social change, the exhibition also benefits from the expertise of Erka Shalari, who collaborates with artists on contemporary practices in the context of climate challenges.

Notable Guests and Events:

Viennacontemporary 2024 promises vibrant exchanges between art and society, featuring notable guests such as Francesca Gavin, an art curator, and Mirela Baciak, the organizer of the exhibition. Attendees can look forward to art performances, workshops, and artist talks, providing unique opportunities to engage with the artists and experience their work firsthand.

This year’s Viennacontemporary is set to not only showcase contemporary art but also serve as a powerful platform for influencing public discourse on the future of art in an ever-changing world.

Sayart / Amia Nguyen, amyngwyen13@gmail.com