LISTE Art Fair Basel, founded in
1996 by a group of Swiss gallerists, emerged as a rebellious alternative to mainstream art fairs. Its mission was to create a platform exclusively for
young galleries and emerging artists, challenging the commercial focus of larger events like Art Basel. Over nearly three decades, LISTE has become a critical launchpad for avant-garde talent.
Key Historical Milestones- 1996–2000: Debuted with 35 galleries in a Basel brewery, prioritizing experimental practices over market trends. Early exhibitors included Galerie Neu (Berlin) and Galerie Francesca Pia (Zurich).
- 2005: Expanded internationally, attracting galleries from Asia and the Americas. Introduced LISTE Performance Project, showcasing live art.
- 2015: Celebrated its 20th edition with a focus on digital art and non-Western narratives, reflecting globalization in the art world.
- 2020–2024: Pivoted to hybrid formats during the pandemic, integrating VR exhibitions and NFT showcases. Partnered with Serpentine Galleries (London) to curate a section on AI ethics.
- 2025: Marks its 30th anniversary with the theme “Uncharted Territories”, emphasizing post-pandemic resilience, decolonized practices, and climate-conscious art.