In 2026, ceramics more than ever assert themselves as one of the leading mediums in the European art market. Between international fairs, institutional biennials, and specialized salons, Europe offers a rich landscape for discovering trends, meeting artists, and identifying the most significant works of the moment. Here are the five must-see ceramic fairs in 2026, selected for their curatorial quality, international reach, and appeal to collectors.
1. Ceramic Brussels – Brussels (Belgium)
The leading contemporary ceramic fair in Europe
From January 21 to 25, 2026, ceramic brussels confirms its status as an essential meeting point for galleries, collectors, and institutions. Entirely dedicated to contemporary ceramics, the fair brings together international galleries, established artists, emerging talents, and an ambitious curatorial program, including a guest of honor, Elmar Trenkwalder, occupying nearly 300 m².
Why it is essential in 2026:
- Selection of international galleries
- Museum-quality exhibitions, installations, and solo shows
- Strong momentum in the contemporary ceramic market
Further reading:
- Ceramic Brussels 2026: the major international contemporary ceramic fair returns to Brussels in January
- Art fairs 2026: the complete calendar of major international events
2. Argillà Italia – September 4–6, 2026 – Faenza (Italy)
The major Mediterranean gathering for ceramics
Held in Faenza, the historic capital of ceramics, Argillà Italia returns in 2026 with hundreds of European exhibitors. The fair is a crossroads of tradition, design, and contemporary creation, offering an exceptional panorama of Italian and European know-how.
Highlights for visitors:
- Stylistic diversity and technical excellence
- Strong presence of master artisans and designers
- Ideal for acquiring unique pieces
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3. Ceramic Art London – May 8–10, 2026 – London (United Kingdom)
The must-attend selling fair for collecting directly from artists
Ceramic Art London is one of the most respected events on the British ceramic scene. Collectors meet artists directly, ensuring transparency, provenance, and meaningful exchanges.
Why you should not miss it:
- Highly rigorous selection of contemporary artists
- Unique works and limited editions
- Strong visibility of the British ceramic scene
4. Oldenburg International Ceramic Fair – August 1–2, 2026 – Oldenburg (Germany)
A German-European tradition dedicated to quality
For more than three decades, Oldenburg has hosted one of the most renowned ceramic fairs in Northern Europe. Over 100 artists present works ranging from contemporary sculpture to exceptional functional ceramics.
Why it matters:
- Very high technical standards
- A strong and demanding German market
- Ideal for identifying artists before their international breakthrough
5. European Ceramic Context (ECC) – Bornholm (Denmark)
(Date to be announced)
The institutional biennial revealing future trends
On the island of Bornholm, designated a “World Craft City,” the European Ceramic Context biennial offers a major museum-oriented approach. The 2026 edition will feature exhibitions, European awards, and monumental installations.
Reasons to attend:
- High-level curatorial vision
- Focus on the Nordic scene, particularly innovative
- An ideal platform for understanding future directions of the medium
An essential journey to understand contemporary ceramics in 2026
From commercial fairs to institutional biennials, ceramics are enjoying unprecedented visibility in Europe. These five events provide a comprehensive overview of current practices: sculpture, installation, design, material experimentation, and collectible works.
For professionals, collectors, and enthusiasts alike, 2026 will be a pivotal year to explore the richness of European ceramics.
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FAQ – European Ceramic Fairs
Yes. The contemporary ceramics market continues to grow in Europe, driven by increasing interest from collectors, the medium’s entry into museums, and stronger crossovers with contemporary art and design. Specialized fairs demonstrate a lasting structuring and professionalization of the sector.
Ceramic Art London is often considered the most accessible. Direct sales from artists allow collectors to better understand artistic approaches, techniques, and the value of the works, while offering more affordable price points than strictly gallery-based fairs.
Ceramic Brussels is the benchmark in 2026 for discovering institution-level works. The presence of international galleries, solo shows, and ambitious installations makes it a fair that closely aligns with museum standards.
Argillà Italia, held in Faenza, is ideal for understanding the history and richness of European ceramic craftsmanship. It combines historical heritage, technical excellence, and contemporary creation.
Yes, provided an informed approach is adopted. Fairs such as Ceramic Brussels or the Oldenburg International Ceramic Fair make it possible to identify artists undergoing institutional recognition or prior to their international breakthrough, offering a medium- to long-term investment opportunity.