BRUSSELS.- The 31st edition of the Art Brussels art fair, which runs from Thursday, April 18, to Sunday, April 21, 2013, announces itself as the spring event for all lovers of contemporary art. Art Brussels, the cutting-edge fair for established and upcoming talent, bring both together in an unparalleled way.

Karen Renders, who passed away prematurely in October of last year, stood at the helm of the fair as its director for fifteen years. Thanks to her efforts, Art Brussels grew into one of the leading contemporary art fairs in Europe and beyond. Renders stood for a fair in which both artistic dynamism and commercial focus occupied a central position. As director, she was very supportive of the younger generation of galleries and artists, whom she enthusiastically gave a platform to within the fair. Her early death brings Art Brussels to a new turning point. It was Karen Renders’ express wish to appoint the international curator Katerina Gregos to a new function in which both the artistic vision and the accompanying programme of the fair would be developed further.

In an almost imperceptible manner, Brussels has transformed itself into the new European place to be for the contemporary art scene. Brussels is now considered one of the fastest growing art cities in Europe. This is also clearly evident in the gallery circuit. International galleries such as Almine Rech, Barbara Gladstone, Clearing, MOT International and Nathalie Obadia have become perfectly integrated in the Brussels scene since several years. And the number of reputable galleries that have chosen Brussels as their home base continues to expand. Gallery Feizi from Shanghai, van der Mieden from Antwerp, Motive from Amsterdam, Michel Rein from Paris, all have opened a space in the capital of Europe.

The international character, the central location, the presence of major collectors and internationally oriented players, the strong artistic climate, the many interesting artists, professionals and institutions; they are all recurring arguments gallerists cite when asked what makes Brussels so attractive to them. As capital of Europe, the city is also important for the international art market from a business perspective. Belgium is known for its large number of art collectors and widely respected private collections.

In addition, many foreign collectors prefer not to miss Art Brussels, as this is the place where new talent can be discovered and key works of established artists are offered.

Brussels is one of the main references on the European market for contemporary art. Art Brussels has become a global player in the field of contemporary art and maintains its place – now more than ever – in the list of major international art fairs. Art Brussels brings together 189 international contemporary art galleries and more than 2,000 artists in one single venue.