Since its launch in 2006, Swab has become one of the most recognised international contemporary art fairs. This September,  the event celebrates a decade of success and invites artists and art galleries from all continents to collaborate in a four day exhibiting event that combines the creative arts with a broad selection of cultures. The fair unites photography, film-making and other forms of visual art with intellectual debates and discussions to form an educational and thought-provoking experience for a contemporary art loving audience.

This year, the event is divided into 12 different sections, which are all curated by different artists and organisations. The programme consists of 30 national and international galleries including Giovanni Bonelli Gallery from Milan, Krokin Gallery from Moscow and local galleries, Victor Lope Gallery and Rocio Santa Cruz.

The independent curatorial events as Swab 2016 showcase the work of exhibitors and artists from a total of 25 countries, including Argentina, Italy, Spain, United States and Russia, and introduced new commissioned material. One of the new independent exhibitions, In-Out – is a collection of ten Barcelona based artists discussing: what it means to be inside or out? Focus Magreb, proposes to deepen social understanding and the reality of cultural dynamics in the region of Magreb in an eye-opening and controversial exhibition.

Chinese filmmakers have a huge presence at the Swab fair this year, with a new programme by Susana Sanz. The artist presents a selection of 3 Chinese filmmakers – Liu Hao, Yu Ju Anqi and Depeng – whose films challenge artistic boundaries with an experimental mix of cinema and video art. These videos will be projected in the Plaza of the Font Magica, in front of the Italian Pavilion.

Throughout the duration of the fair, various events will take place, allowing an experience enhancing visit for all who attend. Curators, gallerists and artists will be invited to host a series of talks, aimed to inspire and educate. Four artists take centre stage to speak about the concerns of artistic boundaries and discuss current social issues whilst interacting with the public.

Presenting the latest editorial trends at the fair is the Swab Reading programme – a space where visitors can attend book signings and other activities, and Swab Kids  allows children to explore visual language through a series of workshops and activities.

Swab Barcelona runs until 2 October. Find out more: www.swab.es

Credits:
1. Luciano Denver Bodeguita Chimbote Digital photomontage printed on cotton paper 110x110cm2016. Courtesy of Swab Barcelona.