Art galleries in Europe are always worth a visit. One way to soak up the culture of a country is to see its artwork. Art reveals the creativity of a city. As well as its history and potential. Everyone knows the main art galleries in Europe. They are the large impressive buildings that host famous and historical paintings. The Louvre, the Tate, the National Gallery – located on every map and discussed in every tour guide. Yet what are some of the unique, independent art galleries of Europe? Although still well known, these ones hold a distinct originality. One unmatched by the old and historical classics.
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East Side Gallery – Berlin, Germany – one of the most unique art galleries in Europe
The East Side Gallery of Berlin is one of the most significant art galleries in Europe. It created art for a definite and meaningful purpose: remembrance. In 1990, global artists gathered. They turned the fallen Berlin wall into a piece of artwork. Each gave their own creative input. The result was 105 paintings. Each adds to transforming this object of history into an artistic symbol. Now, the Berlin wall holds both the rich history and unlimited potential of the city. This is not one of the small or quiet art galleries in Europe. However, it is certainly one of the most original.
Banksy Graffiti – UK
Banksy turned the streets of Bristol into one of the art galleries of Europe. His satirical, political graffiti rose from the city’s underground scene. Now, he has become a popular and renowned artist. People know him for his famous symbolic images. Indeed, some criticize the commercialization of his work. He promoted anti-capitalist ideals. Now ironically, people sell his art on merchandise all over the world. Walk the streets of London, Brighton or Bristol – you will spot some of his artwork. It defines itself by a stencil style technique and dark humor content.
The Saatchi Gallery – London, England
One of the things that make some unique art galleries in Europe so far? Free entrance. Visiting one is the perfect tourist pastime. Especially on a rainy day, or when you ache for some creativity. The Saatchi Gallery in London, UK offers this opportunity. Its particular focus is on supporting younger, growing artists from across the globe. It prides itself on an edgy reputation. It often promotes controversial artwork. However, the gallery is unapologetic in its openness. It boasts genuine creative output. Visiting this place is an experience. You do not know what to expect from the exhibitions. That is all part of the fun.
Montana Gallery – Barcelona, Spain
Urban art is the cool thing. If you are a fan of the rebel attitude of graffiti, Barcelona’s Montana Gallery is the place for you. They took a street approach to art and gave it a home in one of the edgiest art galleries in Europe. It hosts prestigious artists, as well as rising creatives. That is the best thing about this place: no single niche. There are no rules, restrictions or expectations. It is a place of freedom. Just full of open, good urban art.
No Walls – Brighton, England
No Walls art gallery takes the graffiti outlook a step further. It aims to go against the spirit of traditional art galleries in Europe. Instead, it works in opposition to the convention. Even the ideas of urban contemporary art. The desire is to make art accessible to anyone. This means not just old-fashioned art fanatic. And not just hipsters. Everyone. Displays are purposely flexible and varying. They give a broad spectrum of artwork.
Urban Spree – Berlin, Germany
One distinct feature of anti-traditional art galleries in Europe is being interactive. There are no red ropes or cornered off areas in the Urban Spree Gallery. Instead, they focus on sharing art with the public through creative workshops. These regular events connect urban art with popular opinions. They move away from grunge art as a secretive, underground movement. Here, is it celebrated in the public sphere. It makes sense. This way, more people can become involved in art. The motives are purely creative. Spread the joy of art. Don’t keep in hidden within small niche groups.
Art Yourself Gallery – Bucharest, Romania
Art Yourself Gallery holds similar ideas to Urban Spree. These are the art galleries in Europe that connect artists to the people they inspire. They offer a central creative hub of the city – a point of assembly. Painting and photography are key elements of the gallery. It also focuses on displaying mass art displays. These give space to many young rising artists. They put hundreds of pieces on show. Then they sell the art at low, reasonable prices.
Tower Museum – Londonderry, Ireland
Mainly a museum, this cultural center is also an interactive art gallery. The purpose of its art is known. The exhibitions exist to teach visitors about the history of the land. Irish culture is rich with stories. Its population strives to keep the past alive. Tower Museum uses artwork to make this happen. Audio-visual displays engage viewers. They promote important topics and discuss sensitive issues.
Kolly Gallery – Zurich, Switzerland
Some of the galleries in Europe are unique due to personal investment. This applies to a gallery in Zurich. Julien Kolly slowly developed it. He had his own history in street art. So, he opened his first gallery with links to other creative agencies. From there, he worked on monthly exhibitions. Eventually, Julien built a web of connections to worldwide artists. The personal relationships gave this gallery created a distinct character. It is still alive in the place today. There is a focus on modern artistic trends. Exhibitions cover urban art and graphic culture.
Wandering around art galleries is the perfect slow activity. It allows time to relax. It immerses you in the cultural essence of a new city. You learn about the indefinable atmosphere of an area by feeling its artistic spirit. Don’t tread the standard tourist route. Follow your instincts. Find unique art galleries in Europe to explore for yourself.
