Exhibitions
ARCOmadrid 2026: between the future and the demand for cultural VAT
The 45th edition of ARCOmadrid kicks off this Wednesday, March 4th, at the IFEMA exhibition center, solidifying its position as an essential platform for contemporary art. This year, the fair will not only stand out for its focus on the future and artificial intelligence, but also for its advocacy for a reduction in the cultural VAT rate, a topic that remains central for galleries and artists, as was already raised in the previous edition.
One of the most notable changes is the absence of the historic Helga de Alvear gallery, which had been present since the first edition, a fact that marks a symbolic shift in the fair's trajectory. In total, ARCOmadrid brings together 211 galleries from 30 countries: 175 in the General Program and 48 in curated programs, presenting works encompassing painting, sculpture, installations, photography, video, new media, drawing, and printmaking.
Work by Teresa Vall Palou from the Miguel Marcos Gallery at ARCO.
The fair is committed to vitality and renewal through specific programs. Opening welcomes 19 new galleries from 15 countries, incorporating emerging artists and scenes, while Profiles offers 11 projects by artists selected by galleries from 7 Latin American countries, consolidating ARCO's international presence.
Among the most groundbreaking proposals is 'ARCO2045: the future, for now', a project that brings together 17 galleries from 8 countries and invites reflection on possible futures of art and emerging languages, opening new perspectives and questioning the limits of contemporary creativity, as highlighted by Maribel López, director of ARCO.
Cultural VAT and the solidarity of the collector
When asked about Spain's competitiveness, where art purchases are subject to a 21% VAT compared to the 5-8% applied in much of the EU, Maribel López, director of ARCOmadrid, admits that the difference is significant and detrimental to the local market. However, she is confident in the "solidarity" of Spanish collectors.
"Buying art is not just a matter of price; it is a much more sophisticated act, a way of supporting gallery owners and the art system in Spain," explains López, emphasizing that buyers contribute to the sustainability of the entire cultural scene.
Added to this factor is the action of institutions, which continue to acquire works from Spanish galleries even though, due to the difference in VAT, buying from the same artist abroad would be cheaper.
"From what we've seen, from the collectors who come and from the interest the fair generates, I think ARCO will not be affected," says López, confident that the vitality of the event and the involvement of the public will maintain its strength in the market.
