The KunstRAI
KunstRAI has been a leading art fair in the Netherlands for 40 years and a household name in the contemporary art world. Since its inception in 1985, KunstRAI has provided a platform where galleries, artists and collectors come together to present, discover and share art. With a unique focus on both established names and emerging talent, KunstRAI has developed into a diverse and inspiring event accessible to art lovers of all levels.
The rich history of KunstRAI
Founded in 1985 by gallery owner Wim van Krimpen, KunstRAI has since grown into an iconic art fair. As the oldest fair of its genre in the Netherlands and one of the oldest in Europe, KunstRAI has gained a prominent place within the contemporary art world. In 2006, the fair underwent a temporary name change to Art Amsterdam, but since 2012 the event has proudly reverted to its original name.
Ever since its inception, KunstRAI has taken place in the RAI Amsterdam exhibition complex, designed by architect Alexander Bodon. Over the years, the fair has used several iconic locations within the RAI, such as the Amstelhal and the Europahal, and since 2023, the Parkhal has been the new home of this artistic event.
In addition to the diverse presentations by participating galleries, KunstRAI also hosts special exhibitions and a wide range of programmes. From 2014 to 2019, for example, the legendary ‘KunstRAI Dinner’ took place, where participants and their clients could dine in the fair’s corridors after closing time – a unique experience that combined art and food.
In 2019, the fair celebrated its 35th edition, a special milestone in its rich history. In 2025, KunstRAI will mark another major anniversary: the 40th edition of the fair. This celebration will coincide with the festivities surrounding 750 years of Amsterdam, bringing together two icons of Dutch culture in a unique event.
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