Record Attendance at Boutique Art Fair

By Invitation, Barcelona’s modern and contemporary art fair, concluded its seventh edition on Sunday 8th November 2026 at the Círculo Ecuestre, drawing approximately 15,000 visitors, a 50% increase from the 10,000 attendees recorded in 2025, according to the event’s organisers. Held from 5th to 8th November at the historic Casa Pérez Samanillo on Carrer de Balmes, the fair transformed the Modernista mansion into a dynamic exhibition space, with artworks installed throughout its rooms, staircases, and even within fireplaces. The Círculo Ecuestre, a private members’ club, opens its doors annually for the event, which was founded and driven by its president, Enrique Lacalle, in 2020 during the pandemic.

Art, Architecture and Intimacy in Focus

This year’s edition, themed Tramas abiertas (Open Weaves), explored connections between artistic generations, disciplines, and languages, with a particular emphasis on the dialogue between contemporary art, architecture, and collecting. The boutique format, featuring a curated selection of galleries and artists, allowed for direct engagement between visitors, professionals, and artworks, distinguishing it from larger commercial fairs. Around 90 artists participated, with works spanning painting, sculpture, and textile art, including a strong representation of female creators across generations.

We have an enormous sense of success. By Invitation has ceased to be just an art fair to become an essential date in Barcelona's cultural agenda.

, Enrique Lacalle, President of the Círculo Ecuestre and founder of By Invitation

A Growing Cultural Institution

Since its inception, By Invitation has aimed to bring modern and contemporary art closer to the public while promoting collecting and supporting artistic talent. Lacalle noted in a press conference that the event has become fully consolidated, with even Círculo Ecuestre members showing renewed interest in art through the fair. The 2026 edition also reinforced the fair’s international projection, with galleries and artists from beyond Spain contributing to its diverse programme. The fair’s unique model, merging art, business, and intimate cultural exchange, has established it as a distinctive fixture in Barcelona’s cultural calendar.

Sources: Metrópoli, bonart.cat, La Vanguardia, Ara.