Zomersalon | Buy Local
Zomersalon: Buy Local is a radical exhibition where every visual artist from Ghent can show and sell their work. From July 4th to August 31st, Kunsthal Gent will present a wide variety of works, creating a broad view of the current visual arts scene in our city. A remarkable 800 artists are participating in this edition of Zomersalon: Buy Local.
Through a diverse public program this year, we are specifically focusing on supporting the Ghent art scene, from symposia, artist talks, and speed dates to guided tours, performances, and film screenings. We aim to share knowledge, increase artists’ visibility, stimulate the sale of artworks, and draw attention to the needs of the sector.
The concept of the Zomersalon originated during the pandemic to financially support artists in difficult times. The first editions took place in 2020 and 2021, in collaboration with the Ghent Arts Council. It certainly had an impact. Each edition attracted 6,000 visitors, and in 2023, that number even reached 9,000. Between 600 and 700 artists participated each time. Approximately half of the exhibited works found buyers, generating revenues of €105,000 to €125,000 per edition. This was enormous support for the artists. Buyers also contribute to a sustainable art climate in Ghent.