International Collage Exhibition 2026 in Warsaw. Why is it one of the most important art events of the year?
On July 9, 2026, Warsaw will become the European capital of collage art. The International Collage Exhibition 2026 will gather 74 artists from 24 countries at the University Library in Warsaw, presenting a cross-sectional image of contemporary collage – from classic analog techniques to experimental digital and interdisciplinary forms.
What will you find in the article?
- On July 9, 2026, Warsaw will become the European capital of collage art. The International Collage Exhibition 2026 will gather 74 artists from 24 countries at the University Library in Warsaw, presenting a cross-sectional image of contemporary collage – from classic analog techniques to experimental digital and interdisciplinary forms.
- Collage Returns to the Center of Contemporary Art
- 74 Artists from 24 Countries
- David Carson – Star of This Year’s Edition
- Artists Worth Knowing
- Album “Modern Collage” – An Important Publication for the Art World
- Dream Property Marbella Supports Culture
- Art and Real Estate – A Natural Connection
- Listen to the Dream Property Talks Podcast
- Why You Should Visit the International Collage Exhibition 2026?
The event, organized by Retroavangarda on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the project, is recognized as one of the most important events dedicated to collage art in Europe. Moreover, the exhibition is under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage of the Republic of Poland and the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo in Marbella. The project’s patron is Dream Property Marbella.
Collage Returns to the Center of Contemporary Art
Although the history of collage dates back to the early 20th century and experiments by Cubists and Dadaists, today this medium is experiencing a true renaissance. In a world dominated by images, social media, and visual communication, collage has become one of the most current artistic languages.
It combines photography, graphics, typography, painting, and new technologies, allowing creators to comment on contemporary life in an extremely dynamic and personal way. It is no wonder that collage exhibitions are attracting increasing interest from collectors, curators, and cultural institutions worldwide.
The International Collage Exhibition 2026 shows how diverse and inspiring this medium can be.
74 Artists from 24 Countries
This year’s edition has an exceptionally international character. Artists from Europe, both Americas, Asia, and Australia will meet in Warsaw, creating a space for dialogue between cultures, experiences, and aesthetics.
The participants include creators from Spain, France, Belgium, Italy, Germany, the United States, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, Japan, Australia, and Argentina.
Such wide representation makes the exhibition not only a presentation of art but also a platform for exchanging ideas and building international artistic relations.
David Carson – Star of This Year’s Edition
One of the most anticipated participants of the exhibition is David Carson, a legend of global design and a figure who has forever changed the way we think about visual communication.
The American designer, often called the “father of grunge” in graphic design, gained fame primarily as the art director of the iconic magazine “Ray Gun.” His bold approach to typography and breaking traditional design rules has had a huge impact on contemporary visual culture.
Carson has collaborated with brands such as Nike, Microsoft, Giorgio Armani, and Pepsi, and his designs are displayed in the world’s most important design museums. The participation of such a personality significantly raises the profile of the Warsaw exhibition and attracts the attention of international media.
Artists Worth Knowing
Although the presence of David Carson arouses great interest, the International Collage Exhibition 2026 is also an opportunity to discover many other outstanding creators.
Particular attention should be given to:
Michał Batory
One of the most valued Polish graphic artists working in France. Known for highly suggestive theatrical and cultural posters, in which he often uses the language of visual metaphors.
Luc Fierens
A Belgian artist and publisher associated with the global mail art scene and experimental collage. His works are included in numerous private and institutional collections.
Rebeka Elizegi
A Spanish artist creating multilayered compositions inspired by nature, memory, and interpersonal relationships.
Frank Moth
An artist from Greece whose surrealist collages have gained huge popularity on social media and in contemporary art galleries.
Hanna Zawa-Cywińska
A Polish artist exploring themes of memory, identity, and emotions for years through her original collage techniques.
This is just a part of the impressive list of creators whose works will be displayed during the exhibition.
Album “Modern Collage” – An Important Publication for the Art World
An integral part of the project is the premiere of the album “Modern Collage” by Dr. Anna Kłos, the curator and originator of the exhibition.
The 240-page publication presents profiles and works of 50 contemporary collage artists from various parts of the world. The album has been prepared in English, enabling it to reach an international audience.
Copies of the publication will be donated to libraries, museums, universities, and cultural institutions in Poland and Europe, further increasing the project’s reach.
Dream Property Marbella Supports Culture
The patron of the International Collage Exhibition 2026 is Dream Property Marbella. The company’s involvement in the project is not accidental. In the world of luxury (and not only) real estate, there is increasing talk about the importance of art as an element of building the value of places, spaces, and experiences.
Today’s premium client expects not only high-quality architecture or prestigious location but also an authentic story, emotions, and a connection with culture. That is why Dream Property Marbella supports initiatives promoting creativity, intercultural dialogue, and the development of contemporary art.
Art and Real Estate – A Natural Connection
At first glance, the world of art and the real estate market may seem distant. However, in practice, they have been interpenetrating for years. Works of art enhance the prestige of investments, build a unique character of spaces, and influence brand perception. Increasingly, luxury apartment buildings, hotels, or private residences collaborate with artists and curators to create places with a unique identity.
This topic is the focus of the latest episode of the Dream Property Talks podcast.
Listen to the Dream Property Talks Podcast
On the occasion of the exhibition, Tatiana Pękala, CEO of Dream Property Marbella, invited Barbara Polkowska, art advisor and co-organizer of the event, to a conversation.
The podcast discusses, among other things, the issues of:
- the importance of private patronage for culture,
- collaboration between business and art,
- the international significance of the exhibition,
- David Carson’s participation,
- the role of the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo in Marbella,
- the impact of art on the value of places and premium real estate.
It is an inspiring conversation showing that culture can be an important element of responsible business strategy.
Why You Should Visit the International Collage Exhibition 2026?
The International Collage Exhibition 2026 is an opportunity to learn about the latest trends in contemporary art, participate in an event of international stature, and experience the extraordinary creative energy that arises where different cultures and perspectives meet.
For collectors, it will be a chance to discover new names. For art enthusiasts, an opportunity to encounter works that provoke reflection and inspire. For Warsaw, it is further proof that Poland’s capital is increasingly marking its presence on the European cultural map.
The International Collage Exhibition 2026 will take place from July 9 to August 23, 2026, at the Dobra Gallery of the University Library in Warsaw. If you are interested in contemporary art, design, and the most interesting phenomena of visual culture, this event should definitely be on your list for summer 2026.
Sources: Retroavangarda, University Library in Warsaw, TVP Kultura, and Dream Property Talks podcast.
