Are you a business traveler visiting Tbilisi, Georgia? If so, you may be surprised to find that the city is home to a thriving art scene. From contemporary galleries to traditional museums, Tbilisi has something for everyone. In this post, we'll explore some of the best places to experience art in the city.
Contemporary Galleries
If you're interested in contemporary art, Tbilisi has a number of galleries that are worth checking out. Here are a few of our favorites:
Project ArtBeat
Located in the heart of Tbilisi, Project ArtBeat is a contemporary art gallery that showcases the work of Georgian and international artists. The gallery is known for its innovative exhibitions and its commitment to promoting emerging artists. If you're looking for cutting-edge contemporary art, this is the place to go.
TBC Gallery
TBC Gallery is another great option for contemporary art lovers. The gallery is located in a historic building in the center of Tbilisi and features a wide range of exhibitions, from photography to installation art. The space itself is also worth a visit, as it has been beautifully renovated and features a stunning glass roof.
Artarea Gallery
Artarea Gallery is a newer addition to Tbilisi's art scene, but it has already made a name for itself as a space for experimental and interdisciplinary art. The gallery hosts exhibitions, performances, and other events that blur the boundaries between different art forms. If you're looking for something a little different, Artarea is definitely worth a visit.
Traditional Museums
If you're more interested in traditional art forms, Tbilisi has plenty of museums that will satisfy your cravings. Here are a few of our top picks:
Georgian National Museum
The Georgian National Museum is the largest museum in Georgia and is home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from throughout the country's history. The museum's art collection includes everything from ancient gold jewelry to contemporary paintings, so there's something for everyone.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is another great option for traditional art lovers. The museum's collection includes works by Georgian artists from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as European and Russian art from the same time period. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
Tbilisi History Museum
The Tbilisi History Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the city and the region. The museum's art collection includes works by Georgian artists from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as artifacts from the city's ancient past. The museum is housed in a beautiful historic building in the center of Tbilisi, so it's worth a visit just for the architecture.
Street Art
If you're looking for art that's a little more unconventional, Tbilisi has a thriving street art scene. Here are a few places to check out:
Fabrikaffiti
Fabrikaffiti is a street art festival that takes place every year in Tbilisi. The festival brings together artists from around the world to create murals and other street art installations throughout the city. Even if you're not in town during the festival, you can still see some of the amazing murals that have been created in previous years.
Fabrika Hostel
If you're looking for a place to stay in Tbilisi, consider booking a room at Fabrika Hostel. The hostel is located in a former Soviet-era sewing factory and has been converted into a hip, artsy space. The walls are covered in murals and other street art, so you can experience the city's art scene without even leaving your room.
Art Festivals
Tbilisi is home to a number of art festivals throughout the year, so if you're lucky enough to be in town during one of these events, be sure to check it out. Here are a few of our favorites:
Tbilisi Art Fair
The Tbilisi Art Fair is an annual event that brings together galleries, artists, and collectors from around the world. The fair features a wide range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, and installation art. It's a great opportunity to see some of the best contemporary art from Georgia and beyond.
Tbilisi Photo Festival
The Tbilisi Photo Festival is another great event for art lovers. The festival showcases the work of photographers from around the world and includes exhibitions, screenings, and other events. It's a great way to see some of the best photography from Georgia and beyond.
Tbilisi International Film Festival
The Tbilisi International Film Festival is a must-visit event for film lovers. The festival showcases the work of filmmakers from around the world and includes screenings, workshops, and other events. It's a great way to see some of the best films from Georgia and beyond.
Artisanal Crafts
If you're looking for something a little different, Tbilisi is also home to a number of artisanal crafts. Here are a few places to check out:
Dry Bridge Market
Dry Bridge Market is a flea market that takes place every day in Tbilisi. The market is known for its vintage and antique items, but it's also a great place to find handmade crafts, including jewelry, textiles, and ceramics. It's a great way to support local artisans and bring home a unique souvenir.
Tbilisi Carpet Museum
The Tbilisi Carpet Museum is a great place to learn about the history of carpet weaving in Georgia. The museum's collection includes a wide range of carpets, from traditional to contemporary, and you can even see weavers at work in the museum's workshop. If you're interested in textiles or traditional crafts, this is definitely worth a visit.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a business traveler or a tourist, Tbilisi's art scene is definitely worth exploring. From contemporary galleries to traditional museums to street art to artisanal crafts, there's something for everyone. So the next time you find yourself in the city, be sure to take some time to appreciate the art that surrounds you. You never know what you might discover.