ArtMeant* Project

This week’s guest of the ArtMeant Project* is Shahrzad Ghorban, the Manager and Curator of Renaissance Gallery, located in Geneva.

“Contemporary art has a powerful social role it reflects, questions, and documents the world we live in. Today, with global access through the internet and social media, artists’ work travels far beyond their studios, reaching wide audiences and carrying even greater influence.”

Interviewed by Buket Bal Soezeri

How was Galerie Renaissance established? Could you share the story behind its foundation? 

 Galerie Renaissance was founded in 2019, with the aim of creating a space where artists and the local community could come together to connect, reflect, and exchange ideas through art.

 The gallery operates under a Swiss wealth management firm that values integrity, cultural engagement, and human connection. Being part of GAWM has allowed us to align with a broader vision one that sees art and culture as essential to a meaningful and inspired way of living.

 

How do you plan and organize your exhibitions? What criteria do you consider when selecting artists to collaborate with?

Our exhibitions begin with an idea something timely, inspiring, or worth exploring more deeply. From there, we look for artists whose work resonates with that theme and brings a unique point of view.

We value authenticity, thoughtfulness, and experimentation. Just as important is the relationship with the artist it’s a collaboration from start to finish. Every exhibition is a shared journey, and that creative dialogue is at the heart of what we do.

 

Could you describe your another exhibition, Summer Salon d’Art?

Summer Salon d’Art is a lively group exhibition inspired by the spirit of the historic Paris Salon and the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition. With 27 artists from Geneva, Switzerland, and beyond, it revives the salon-style format works hung floor-to-ceiling, side-by-side, regardless of reputation.

The show celebrates artistic diversity and creative freedom. There’s no fixed theme just a dynamic, joyful mix of voices and mediums that invites viewers to explore and discover unexpected connections. It’s about shared presence and the beauty of contrast.

 

What are your thoughts on the social impact of contemporary art? In your opinion, what role does your gallery play in this regard?

Contemporary art has a powerful social role it reflects, questions, and documents the world we live in. Today, with global access through the internet and social media, artists’ work travels far beyond their studios, reaching wide audiences and carrying even greater influence.

This visibility brings responsibility. Artists today help shape how we see our time. At Galerie Renaissance, we see our role as a space that supports those voices, encourages reflection, and connects art with the broader social conversation.

 

Some works shown in your gallery are described as “pushing the boundaries of convention.” What does boundary-challenging art mean to you?

To us, boundary-challenging art isn’t about provocation for its own sake it’s about expanding the way we perceive, feel, and think. It might mean experimenting with materials, defying narrative structures, or reimagining historical contexts. Such art invites viewers to question assumptions and embrace complexity. It’s often in the space of discomfort or unfamiliarity that the most meaningful insights arise. As a gallery, we’re drawn to work that is bold in concept and fearless in execution.

 

 What is your approach to diversity and inclusion? How does working with artists from different backgrounds contribute to your gallery? How would you define the relationship between artists and the gallery?

Being based in Geneva, a diverse and international city, we naturally collaborate with artists from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. While our program has strong European roots, we’ve also worked with artists from Central and Latin America, and we’re eager to expand globally.

Diversity isn’t just a goal it’s part of how we grow and stay connected. Our relationships with artists are built on trust and mutual respect; we aim to be both a platform and a supportive partner in their creative journeys.

 

Are there any upcoming special projects or exhibitions you are planning to launch?

Yes. We have a full calendar of exhibitions lined up for the remainder of the year, showcasing both emerging and established voices across a range of practices. While we’re focused on delivering those thoughtfully, we’re also beginning to shape the curatorial vision for 2026. The goal is to continue growing the programme in meaningful ways pushing creative boundaries while staying connected to our audience and context.

Exciting ideas are brewing, and we look forward to sharing more with you soon. Stay tuned.

 

What are your international goals for the gallery? Are you considering participating in international art fairs or forming global partnerships?

We’re definitely eager to grow internationally and connect with a broader audience. While we don’t have anything officially planned at the moment, we are actively exploring the idea of participating in an international art fair in the near future. You’ll have to stay tuned but we’re excited about the possibilities ahead. Expanding our global presence is a crucial step for us, not only to showcase our artists on a larger stage but also to build meaningful connections with collectors, curators, and cultural institutions worldwide. The momentum is there, and we’re looking forward to what’s to come.

https://galerie-renaissance.com