The art quarter budapest: From beer to contemporary art

A former brewery has been transformed into an independent, international cultural center in Budapest

An industrial building can have a more societal purpose when it becomes an international cultural center. This is what Wolfgang Bartesch and his artistic wife Christina did by buying and renovating a former brewery in Budapest. Nowadays, part of the complex belongs to the privately-owned cultural institution art quarter budapest.

This vibrant place is home to approximately 30 Hungarian artists. Moreover, foreign talents can take advantage of the international artist-in-residence programme to use this workspace and overnight in the on-site guest apartments.

A wide variety of artistic disciplines is welcomed. From music to visual arts. From literature to performing arts. Independent art projects are initiated, often through collaborative efforts with (inter)national partners. Exhibitions and educational events take place, both in their own gallery space, as well as in other (inter)national venues. There is an indoor concert space, an experimental sound studio (Spatial Sound Institute), and an outdoor performance space for live events.

art quarter budapest combines profit and non-profit activities to sustain itself. The venue can be rented to host exhibitions, cultural initiatives – including concerts -, as well as professional events such as workshops and conferences. The building complex is maintained through a combination of bank loans, revenue from organisational activities, and the efforts of companies and artists working on site.

Are you interested in learning more about this project? Visit the HUB-IN Atlas.