This weekend, the Art3F fair dedicated to contemporary art returns to Monaco for its sixth edition.

Founded in Mulhouse thirteen years ago, Art3F has become an annual gathering for art lovers and novices alike. "We've always wanted to break the mold of traditional art fairs and make art accessible ," explains Serge Beninca, founder of Art3F. " The idea, from the start, was to offer affordable art, because the price doesn't create emotion. You can find incredible pieces without spending a fortune ."

Since its launch, the show has expanded to 21 cities in France and Europe, including Spain, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany.

In Monaco, the international contemporary art event returns for its sixth edition from September 19 to 21. The date, historically set for the end of August, has been moved to the end of September in 2024 to better accommodate the busy schedules of teams and exhibitors.

" With 21 shows a year, we were always on the road ," he says. "This shift allowed us to give our employees a real summer break and to renew some of the exhibitors. Despite this change, the show is fully booked, which shows the public's attachment . "

A Monegasque stopover that has become a must, attracting nearly 18,000 visitors over three days last year. Its success is based as much on the diversity of the offerings as on the unique setting of the Fontvieille marquee. Some artists and galleries are participating only in this edition: " It's a prestigious city, a showcase for their careers," emphasizes the organizer . "We have a strong Italian presence, but also Russian and Spanish ."

Solid sales despite the context

In 2024, Monaco recorded 925 sales. While the art market is not immune to economic tensions, the fair's model, with audience loyalty building over the years, helps maintain stable attendance. High-end pieces continue to attract customers.

" In Monaco, we've already seen collectors buy almost an entire stand on impulse. But this remains a demanding, informed clientele, and you shouldn't think that exhibiting here guarantees exceptional sales ," explains Serge Beninca.

Conversely, lower-priced works are more affected by the economic climate. " For a couple who spent 300 to 500 euros on a piece, the economic climate weighs more heavily. On the other hand, collectors with high purchasing power remain present ."

An eclectic artistic immersion

For this edition, Art3F promises a highly diverse artistic platform: expressionism, art brut, abstraction, graffiti, kinetic art, minimalism, pop art, new realism... More than 3,500 works will be offered for sale, presented by more than 200 artists and galleries from around the world.

" We want each visit to be a sensory journey," continues the organizer . "Art3F is the opportunity to meet the artists directly, to understand their approach and to experience barrier-free exchanges ."

The official opening will take place on Friday, September 19th, starting at 6 p.m. True to Art3F's DNA, each artist will host their own opening at their booth, encouraging discussion and spontaneous favorites.

Learn more Dates: September 19-21, 2025. Location: Fontvieille marquee, 5, avenue des Ligures. Hours: Friday 4-10 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Prices: 10 euros, free for accompanied minors.