Introduction

The Göteborg International Biennial for Contemporary Art (GIBCA) has established itself as one of the most significant contemporary art events in the Nordic region. Founded in 2001, the biennial takes place across multiple venues throughout Gothenburg, Sweden, transforming the city into a dynamic space for artistic exploration and critical discourse.

GIBCA distinguishes itself through its commitment to addressing pressing social, political, and environmental issues through the lens of contemporary art. Each edition is organized around a thematic framework, allowing for in-depth exploration of relevant topics in today's society while fostering dialogue between local and international art communities.

Narrative & Themes

GIBCA consistently explores themes at the intersection of art, society, and politics. Recent editions have addressed issues such as climate crisis, decolonization, migration, technology, and social justice. The biennial maintains a critical approach to contemporary art practice, often questioning established institutions and dominant narratives.

The curatorial vision for each edition aims to create meaningful connections between artistic practices and urgent global issues, while also engaging with the specific context of Gothenburg and its industrial heritage, maritime history, and diverse communities. This dual focus on the local and the global creates a distinctive perspective that has come to define GIBCA's identity in the international biennial landscape.

The 12th edition of GIBCA, scheduled for September 2025, will explore the theme "Ecologies of Belonging," examining how art can address questions of community, identity, and sustainability in an era of environmental crisis and social fragmentation. The exhibitions will feature works that propose alternative visions of coexistence between humans and with the more-than-human world.

History & Context

GIBCA was established in 2001 to create a platform for contemporary art in Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city with a rich industrial and maritime history. Since its inception, the biennial has grown in scope and international recognition, while maintaining strong connections to the local art scene and cultural context.

The biennial emerged during a period of transformation in Gothenburg, as the city was transitioning from its industrial past toward a knowledge-based economy with increasing emphasis on culture and creative industries. GIBCA has played a significant role in this transformation, helping to position Gothenburg as a cultural destination and fostering new perspectives on the city's identity.

Exhibition Venues

GIBCA utilizes a diverse array of venues throughout Gothenburg, from established cultural institutions to repurposed industrial spaces and public areas. This distributed approach encourages visitors to explore different parts of the city and experience art in varied contexts.

The biennial's main hub is Röda Sten Konsthall, a former boiler house converted into a contemporary art center located beneath the iconic Älvsborg Bridge. Other significant venues include Göteborgs Konsthall, Gothenburg Museum of Art, and various alternative spaces that change with each edition. Public art installations and interventions also extend into parks, squares, and unexpected urban locations.

This multi-venue strategy reflects GIBCA's commitment to accessibility and community engagement, allowing for diverse forms of artistic expression while creating connections between art, architecture, and public space. The biennial provides shuttle services between venues, creating a cohesive visitor experience despite the geographical distribution.