The Etxepare Basque Institute reinforces its commitment with the Basque Artistic System

Basque public institutions and art museums reaffirmed their joint commitment to promoting the Basque Art System in Vitoria-Gasteiz today. The Basque Government, the Etxepare Basque Institute, the Provincial Council of Alava, Artium Museoa, the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, the Guggenheim Bilbao and Tabakalera have championed art as a strategic cultural asset, recognising it as a key driver for community development, identity and the Basque Country’s international presence. They also presented new acquisitions of works within the framework of the ‘Colección Compartida’ (Shared Collection) initiative, which is founded on collaboration between these institutions.

The representatives in attendance noted the progress made in building a more organised and connected Basque art system, viewing art as a shared narrative and supporting it as a space for reflection and international outreach. The collaboration between institutions and art centres seeks to support Basque artists’ careers and ensure their presence in well-known international art venues.

In line with the other institutions, the director of the Etxepare Basque Institute, Irene Larraza, emphasised that art is one of the Basque Country’s strongest assets for its international profile, helping to create a contemporary, creative image that welcomes the world. This international presence is driven not only by the talent of Basque artists but also by a stable, coordinated, and ambitious artistic system. When public institutions, major art museums and the Etxepare Basque Institute work in unison, Basque art’s ability to establish itself and gain recognition on key international cultural stages is greatly enhanced. This cooperation is vital for the Basque Country to maintain a presence on the international art scene and to have its own voice at renowned biennials like Venice, São Paulo, and Sydney, among others.

Shared Collection

‘Collectión Compartida’ is an inter-institutional collaboration project aimed at fostering coordinated efforts between Basque museums and contemporary art centres. The initiative enables the acquisition of works by Basque artists to help build a public historical and artistic heritage. The collection, created in 2020 by the Basque Government´s Department of Culture, is expanded and updated every year. This year, the new acquisitions from 2025 were presented – a selection that added 31 works by 21 artists to the Shared Collection. This programme also helps to highlight the vitality of the Basque art system.