The Principality of Monaco has established itself as a true hub for the art market. Ten years ago, an art fair made its debut almost discreetly. A small exhibition for a select few in the know, in a privileged setting, far from the crowds thronging impersonal venues. Art Monte-Carlo has just celebrated its tenth anniversary with the participation of prestigious galleries offering a wide selection of works in all styles, representing the very best of modern and contemporary art. Simultaneously, Monaco Art Week took place, offering a fascinating journey through the galleries and art centres of the Principality. A vibrant scene with high-calibre exhibitions. Two events that demonstrate that the art market is booming in Monaco.
Art Monte-Carlo: Ten Years of Success
A small gem, reflecting the scale and image of the Principality, a stark contrast to major international art fairs, often bordering the gigantic, it was designed to be intimate and highly selective. Over time, Art Monte-Carlo has established itself, however, alongside the biggest names in the industry, whilst maintaining its elegant spirit and almost family like atmosphere. Held at the Grimaldi Forum last spring, its tenth edition brought together some thirty of the world’s most prestigious international galleries. Major works of modern art and the latest creations in contemporary art were displayed side by side, much to the delight of collectors and art lovers.
For its special anniversary, Art Monte-Carlo has welcomed some of the most established international galleries in their respective fields — Almine Rech, Cortesi Gallery, Galleria Continua, Suzanne Tarasieve, Semiose, Van de Weghe, Voena, and Wilde, while also hosting newcomers from Italy, Switzerland, Sweden, South Korea and others.
Art lovers and collectors were in attendance, with the organizers fully satisfied with its outcome. Currently part of the Informa Group, a world leader in organizing trade fairs, Art Monte-Carlo continues to evolve while preserving its unique identity, characterized by precision, clarity and a controlled pace. Its highlight was the “Earthly Delights” — an exhibition conceived by director of the Bangkok Kunsthalle, Stefano Rabolli Pansera, and inspired by the filmmaker, Luis Buñuel. This innovative project broke free from the traditional art fair format, offering a fully immersive environment. Artworks were presented in a more informal and convivial setting, incorporating a bar at the heart of the exhibition space as one of its highlights. A novel way of considering pleasure as a true component of creation, with imagination completely asserting itself as a way of living.
Monaco Art Week: an eclectic and exciting 8th edition
Celebrating a connection between different modes of expression, building a bridge between ancient art and contemporary creation, including design and jewellery, it was invigorating indeed. Organized alongside the art fair, the 8th Monaco Art Week was a captivating journey through the Principality’s art life, introducing us to both iconic galleries as well as more discreet spaces showcasing innovative artists. Eclecticism was more present than ever, with a dozen venues involved bringing together institutions, art-dealers, collectors and artists.
Works of Ron Arad at the Opera Gallery were among its highlights, tracing the renowned designer’s career from 1992 to 2026. His chrome-plated steel pieces reveal both a playful and sculptural approach.
As to Adriano Ribolzi, he rediscovered Christo with his designs foreshadowing monumental and groundbreaking environmental projects. These included “Mastaba,” exhibited a few years ago at the Maeght Foundation, and the enormous “Over the River” project, a monumental 9.5-kilometre-long ephemeral artwork destined to adorn the Arkansas River in Colorado which sadly never came to fruition.
In a completely different style, Elisabeth Lillo Renner paid tribute to the Argentinian surrealist sculptor, Virginia Tentindo, with her work exploring multiple mediums, including small, elegant and highly original pieces of jewellery that contrast sharply with the massive scale of some of her sculptures.
This prestigious Art Week was inaugurated by Prince Albert II and the Princess of Hanover.
Hosted by the salons and gardens of the New National Museum of Monaco, Villa Paloma, this 8th edition was attended by: The Monte-Carlo Auction House, NM Contemporary, Collect/MC, Elisabeth Lillo Renner, M.F. Toninnelli Art Moderne, Adriano Ribolzi Gallery, Opera Gallery, Hofa/yellowkorner MC, Almine Rech, Moretti Fine Arts/Sotheby’s, Artcurial — Monaco sculptures, Jardins de la Petite Afrique, Kamil Art Gallery, and Christie’s.
