Shaping Luxembourg’s Creative Future: An Interview with Alex Reding, Founder of Luxembourg Art Week

CH How did you come up with the idea of creating Luxembourg Art Week?

AR I founded Luxembourg Art Week based on a personal idea, following the observation – by a Luxembourgish kid (myself) – that there was a strong concentration of international art related events in the major cities, with a certain neglect of regional centers. To counter this trend, I felt it was important to create an event capable of boosting Luxembourg’s art scene both nationally and internationally. The fair is designed as a platform for promoting all actors of the art scene, and this approach seems to be paying off. The success of the event bears witnesses is evident, with over 22 000 visitors in just four days in 2023.

CH How to describe the fair in three words?

AR In two words: friendly and open! Embracing both international to regional trends, while also featuring a segment for the secondary market.The fair succeeds in winning over all art collectors.

CH If you compare this fair with others, what's your USP, what makes this fair a special one?

AR The fair's artistic offering takes into account the diversity of the public by offering a wide range of styles. This broad spectrum is also reflected in the prices of the artworks, which range from a few hundred Euros to pieces that can reach several hundred thousand Euros. This diversity allows everyone to find artworks that resonate with them.

CH What about the institutions and museums in Luxembourg, do you work closely together is there something like a common master plan of cooperation?

AR The collaboration with local institutions is very close. Some develop specific on-site programming during the fair week, and others participate in our Art Talk program offered on the fair ground.

CH How do you support newcomers in the scene? New galleries and artists? Is this a special focus of yours?

AR Absolutely, it’s a special focus of ours: the Take Off section, subsidized by the Ministry of Culture, enables us to offer young exhibitors and regional artist collectives the opportunity to take part in the fair at affordable rates.

CH The art market is quite challenging - especially at the moment, how do you deal with that?

AR It's true that the art market is going through a challenging period lately. However, I believe that the desire of art enthusiasts to reconnect with exhibitors and support a vibrant scene is still very much alive. In recent years, we have noticed that the energy and conviviality of our event gives a real boost to the market and stimulate the art scene.

CH If you take a step back and think about Luxembourg Art Week past and present, where are you heading? Can you tell us more about your future goals?

AR I'm often asked this question, and I've never had a clear answer. In fact, I see a positive evolution each year, thanks to meticulous work and improvements of all the areas that could be perfected from the previous edition. We are aware that the number of fairs in Europe is considerable, with each one seeking to establish its place. Ours is defined by Luxembourg – a representation of a vibrant, young scene – and an exceptional conviviality that creates a sense of satisfaction among our audience and a desire to continue this growth.

CH Last but not least: Coming as a visitor to Luxembourg: what not to miss?

AR Cultural institutions offer high-quality programs, often within remarkable architectural structures. I also believe that the city offers an interesting contrast, with its charming historic center and new modern districts where the economic heart of the city beats, enhanced by ambitious architectural projects.