Are you a lover of art? Do you enjoy collecting unique and beautiful pieces to decorate your home or office? If so, Tbilisi is the perfect destination for you! This Georgian city is home to a thriving art scene, with a wide range of galleries, markets, and shops selling everything from traditional Georgian paintings to modern sculptures.
In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the best places to go shopping for art in Tbilisi. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, we've got you covered!
The Best Places to Find Art in Tbilisi
Dry Bridge Market
One of the best places to find unique and affordable art in Tbilisi is the Dry Bridge Market. This open-air market is open every day except Monday and is a treasure trove of vintage and antique items, including paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces.
The market is located on the banks of the Mtkvari River and is easy to find. Just look for the crowds of people browsing the stalls and haggling with the vendors! You're sure to find something that catches your eye, whether it's a traditional Georgian painting or a modern sculpture.
Art Galleries
Tbilisi is home to a number of excellent art galleries, showcasing the work of both local and international artists. Some of the best galleries include:
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TBC Gallery: This gallery, located in the heart of the city, hosts regular exhibitions featuring the work of contemporary Georgian and international artists.
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Project ArtBeat: This gallery focuses on contemporary art from Georgia and the Caucasus region, with a particular emphasis on emerging artists.
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Georgian National Museum: The museum's fine arts collection includes works by some of Georgia's most famous artists, including Niko Pirosmani and Lado Gudiashvili.
Vernissage Art Market
Another great place to find art in Tbilisi is the Vernissage Art Market. This market is located in the heart of the old town and is open every weekend. It's a great place to find unique and affordable art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and traditional Georgian crafts.
The market is also a great place to meet local artists and learn more about the Georgian art scene. Many of the vendors are happy to chat with visitors and share their knowledge and expertise.
Art Shops
If you're looking for something specific, such as a traditional Georgian painting or a modern sculpture, you may want to check out some of the city's art shops. Some of the best shops include:
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Artbridge: This shop specializes in traditional Georgian art, including paintings, sculptures, and other crafts.
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Art Gallery 5: This shop features the work of contemporary Georgian artists, including paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces.
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Art Palace: This shop is located in the heart of the city and features a wide range of art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
Tips for Shopping for Art in Tbilisi
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Do your research: Before you start shopping, do some research on the local art scene. This will help you get a better sense of what's available and what you should expect to pay.
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Bargain: Many vendors at the markets and shops are willing to negotiate on price. Don't be afraid to haggle a little bit to get the best deal.
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Meet the artists: If you're interested in learning more about the local art scene, try to meet some of the local artists. They can provide valuable insights into the art world and may be able to help you find the perfect piece for your collection.
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Take your time: Shopping for art can be overwhelming, especially if you're not familiar with the local scene. Take your time and don't rush into any purchases. It's better to wait and find the perfect piece than to settle for something that doesn't quite fit your style or budget.
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Consider shipping: If you're traveling and don't want to carry your new art pieces with you, consider shipping them home. Many vendors and shops can arrange shipping for you, and it's often more affordable than you might think.
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Look for unique pieces: One of the best things about shopping for art in Tbilisi is the opportunity to find unique and one-of-a-kind pieces. Don't be afraid to look beyond the traditional paintings and sculptures and explore some of the more unusual art forms, such as textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.
Exploring Tbilisi's Art Scene
If you're a true art lover, you'll want to take some time to explore Tbilisi's art scene beyond the markets and shops. Here are some other great ways to experience the city's vibrant art culture:
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Visit the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts: This prestigious art school has produced some of Georgia's most famous artists, including Niko Pirosmani. The school's gallery hosts regular exhibitions featuring the work of both students and faculty.
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Attend an art festival: Tbilisi hosts a number of art festivals throughout the year, showcasing everything from traditional Georgian music and dance to contemporary art and performance.
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Take an art tour: If you want to get a more in-depth look at Tbilisi's art scene, consider taking an art tour. There are a number of companies that offer guided tours of the city's galleries, museums, and other art spaces.
Conclusion
Shopping for art in Tbilisi is an exciting and rewarding experience. With so many galleries, markets, and shops to choose from, you're sure to find something that catches your eye. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, Tbilisi is the perfect destination for art lovers. So why not plan your trip today and discover all that this vibrant city has to offer?