From April 25 to 27, Bogotá will once again transform into an expansive outdoor museum through the ninth edition of ARTBO Weekend. Organized by the Bogotá Chamber of Commerce, this event serves as a prelude to the ARTBO International Art Fair in September. This year’s program includes 86 exhibition spaces, featuring works by 253 artists across 83 exhibitions, complemented by over 157 free public events. Divided into six geographic circuits, ARTBO Weekend invites participants to explore galleries, artist-run spaces, and alternative venues while challenging traditional notions of art presentation.
A significant highlight of this year's edition is its innovative approach to engaging audiences beyond conventional gallery settings. The Ruta del Libro (Book Route) connects specialized bookstores with the broader exhibition program, expanding the definition of art spaces. Additionally, the Ruta Diseño (Design Route) showcases the intersection between functional design and contemporary aesthetics. Central to the program is the San Francisco Palace, hosting key events such as Conversaciones, Encuentro Editorial, and the Intervention group exhibition, all designed to deepen engagement with contemporary art.
Exploring Art Beyond Traditional Boundaries
This year’s ARTBO Weekend emphasizes innovation by venturing beyond typical gallery environments. Pop-up exhibitions in unconventional locations aim to redefine audience interaction with art. For instance, Montenegro Art Projects activates the Casa Lleras Library Museum, while Policroma from Medellín introduces regional perspectives to the capital. These initiatives reflect a shift towards dynamic curation that embraces movement and conversation.
In line with this philosophy, the flagship initiative Ruta del Libro integrates specialized bookstores into the event framework. Stops at Matorral Librería, Garabato Libros, and others connect visitors with visual arts literature, reinforcing the idea that art extends beyond physical objects. This curated tour ultimately links to Corferias, enhancing accessibility and inclusivity. By incorporating editorial and publishing initiatives, ARTBO Weekend broadens the scope of what constitutes an art space, fostering deeper connections between creators and audiences.
Engaging Dialogues and Collaborative Experiences
The core of ARTBO Weekend lies in its ability to foster dialogue and collaboration among diverse stakeholders. At the heart of the program is the San Francisco Palace, where three major events take place. Conversaciones features discussions led by international and Colombian curators on topics ranging from Indigenous art to new media, offering insights into the evolving landscape of Latin American art. Sign language interpretation ensures these panels are accessible to all attendees.
Meanwhile, the Encuentro Editorial highlights independent publishers working at the intersection of art and literature. Through installations, book launches, workshops, and talks, this segment explores the changing dynamics of art publishing in the region. Lastly, the Intervention group exhibition challenges assumptions about contemporary Colombian art by showcasing collectible pieces and emphasizing artistic processes. Curated by María Isabel Rueda, it provides a glimpse into the types of works being acquired locally, further enriching the cultural dialogue during ARTBO Weekend.