Frankfurt Gallery Weekend Saisonstart

32nd edition, September 4–6

‍At the Frankfurt Gallery Weekend Saisonstart, which is celebrating its 32nd edition this year, 36 galleries, 10 off-spaces, and 3 art foundations will present their new Exhibitions following the summer break. This year’s program is characterized by a strong international focus, experimental use of materials, and art-historical references. Frankfurt’s emerging artists are well represented at the off-spaces. The “ Saisonstart,” which takes place as part of the Frankfurt Art Experience, is supported and made possible by the Frankfurt Cultural Affairs Office.

This year, from September 4 to 6, the 10,000 annual art explorers are once again invited to delve into various spheres and genres: The exhibition features young, international, queer, and multimedia works from Frankfurt; key figures in recent German art history are showcased; and paintings from the major German art academies in Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, and Leipzig are on display. And works from around the world—including Seoul, Paris, Milan, and London—will be on display.

Art Walks Through Galleries and Off-Site Spaces

A total of 30 Art Walks offer a great introduction to the multifaceted exhibition program, which spans five city districts. Eight experienced art educators provide fascinating insights into selected galleries and off-spaces during guided tours through the Innenstadt, Ostend, Sachsenhausen, the Bahnhofsviertel, the Westend , and—for the first time—the Nordend. To meet the growing international demand, ten English-language guided tours are being offered this year.

New: Street concerts in drei various neighborhoods

A new feature this year is the “Art. Street. Concerts,” curated by British-German jazz musician Timothy Roth. On opening night, September 4, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., the composer drei will stage unique open-air concerts at the gallery centers Altstadt, Innenstadt , and Westend. The musical spectrum ranges from classical music with electro beats to live funky jazzy groove music and improvised electro.

The City of Frankfurt Supports the Galleries

The Gallery Weekend is supported by its long-standing media partner, Monopol, and, for the first time, by the international business law firm Skadden. However, the “ Saisonstart ” is made possible only through substantial funding from the City of Frankfurt. Dr. Ina Hartwig, Head of the Department of Culture, emphasizes the importance of galleries for Frankfurt as a center of art and culture:

“For a vibrant cultural city like Frankfurt, the role of galleries and off-spaces cannot be overstated. They form a vital link between the art academies, studio complexes, and museums in our city. Frankfurt’s appeal to artists also stems from this connection. That is why we need stable infrastructures, networks, and mentors—such as those provided by our galleries—and, not least, the “ Saisonstart,” which spotlights around 50 exciting art venues throughout the city.”

About the Frankfurt Art Experience

Since 2019, The Frankfurt Art Experience has been the official platform for Frankfurt’s galleries. Founded by Tyrown Vincent and the creative agency Urban Media Project, which has offices in Offenbach and Cologne, the platform brings together visibility, exchange, and high-quality art experiences. At its core are the “ Saisonstart ” of Frankfurt Gallery Weekend and the international gallery format “House of Galleries.”