In its 17th edition, SWAB Barcelona International Art Fair showcases evolving trends in contemporary art, featuring 70 galleries, including emerging and independent spaces. SWAB Art Fair is embracing innovation and tradition with two exciting developments this year: the introduction of a dedicated design section and the increased presence of handcraft across various program areas. These additions reflect the fair’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of artistic practices. The 17th edition also introduces a new program dedicated to collectible design, reflecting the current trend of integrating art and design to create a bridge between aesthetics and functionality through tangible artworks. For this initial launch, a curated selection will offer a glimpse into today’s design scene by involving all key players both design galleries and studios.

This year, the art fair will showcase a significant number of textile artworks. Textile art has seen a remarkable resurgence, with artists leveraging its versatility and rich cultural history to create compelling, tactile works that challenge traditional boundaries. This unique art form blends craft and fine art, incorporating techniques such as weaving, embroidery, and fabric manipulation to explore themes of identity, memory, and societal issues. The intersection of textile art and fashion is particularly intriguing. Both fields celebrate the tactile and visual qualities of fabric, yet they often approach it from different perspectives. At SWAB Barcelona, several artists are blurring these lines, using textiles not only to celebrate the aesthetic and functional qualities of textiles but also engage with deeper narratives, reflecting on the material’s historical significance and its role in various cultures.