Artbo 2026: A Boutique Art Fair That Celebrates Latin American Talent

As Artbo 2026 unfolds in Bogotá, it remains distinctly focused on fostering local artistic expressions, supporting Colombian and Latin American artists. The fair, which runs until September 27, features an array of 50 galleries, a marked increase from the 33 galleries just three years ago, reflecting a gradual recovery post-pandemic, albeit still below the pre-pandemic levels of approximately 70 exhibitors.

The fair’s director, Jaime A. Martínez, emphasizes its commitment to showcasing primarily Latin American art, steering away from broader international representation. “I don’t plan for us to be this kind of international [fair] that we have many galleries from all the continents,” he states, launching his vision to establish Artbo as the go-to event for experiencing the rich tapestry of South and Central American art.

This year's preview drew an enthusiastic crowd of 3,500 on September 23, signaling strong local interest and a vibrant atmosphere. Participants and visitors alike consider Artbo a fixture in Colombia’s art landscape. “Artbo was always the place to see art; there are people that they don’t go to museums every year, but they come to Artbo,” Martínez adds.

Among the standout works was a collection of geometric abstract paintings by Gustavo Niño, which caught the attention of Miami collector Jorge M. Pérez’s Related Group, ultimately selling for $20,000. Success stories like these affirm Artbo's essential role not just for artists but also for collectors looking to engage with new and local talent.

Supporting Local Artists

Artbo also champions local talent, with the Instituto de Visión highlighting works from emerging and established Colombian artists. Artistic director and co-founder Beatríz López views the fair as vital for local creatives. “It’s very important for me when I participate in this fair that the opportunity and the space is given to local artists,” she explains.

This commitment is evident in the diverse range of artworks on display, including unique geometric paintings by Huitoto Indigenous artist Aimema Úai, as well as textile pieces from rising artist Gloria Sebastián Fierro, with some selling for up to $20,000 during the preview.

Fernández Mosseri gallery, recently renamed from Galería [SN], features a robust selection of Colombian artists, with co-owner Ana Mosseri noting a renaissance in painting within Colombia. “In Colombia, people stopped painting for many years. It’s just coming back,” she remarks, underscoring the cultural resurgence in artistic endeavors.

Emerging Gallery Spotlight

For the second consecutive year, Artbo has incorporated a section called Galerías Doce, which showcases emerging galleries in intimate exhibition spaces. One highlight includes artworks priced attractively at $2,000 to $3,000 from Mexico City’s Banda Municipal, focusing on contemporary glass works.

Alongside this up-and-coming segment, Artbo continues its tradition of featuring a curated section called Artecámera. This year, it hosts approximately 20 artists under forty who typically lack gallery representation, promising fresh perspectives and materials heavily influenced by ecological themes.

Subtlety in Political Commentary

Even against the backdrop of Colombia's challenging political landscape, much of the artwork this year does not overtly confront pressing issues. However, certain galleries, like Rolf Art, take a more politically charged stance, with founder Florencia Giordana Braun noting that Colombian artists are particularly adept at exploring their nation’s tumultuous history through art.

For example, Clemencia Echeverri’s video installation, which carries testimonies from former combatants, exemplifies how art can act as a medium for societal reflection, with works ranging in price from $10,000 to $40,000 based on complexity and impact.

Artbo’s Ongoing Evolution

Despite the uncertainties introduced by the recent shift in Colombia's political climate, many in the art community express optimism about the future. Some believe that under the new right-wing government of President Abelardo de la Espriella, the art scene may see revitalized economic opportunities. Conversely, recent protests against cuts to cultural funding suggest that the art sector will need to remain vigilant and resilient.

Ultimately, Martínez encapsulates Artbo’s essence as more than just an art fair, but as a pivotal gathering for discovering Latin America’s artistic contributions: “This has to be the fair that you go to discover what Latin America has to offer.” With its focus on local talent and community engagement, Artbo continues to carve out its unique niche in the global art ecosystem.

Artbo, until 27 September, Agora Bogotá Convention Center, Bogotá