Germany allocates €16 million fund to support galleries hit by pandemic

Germany has launched a €16 million support program for art galleries under its NEUSTART KULTUR initiative, aimed at mitigating the economic fallout from the pandemic. Galleries based in Germany operating for at least three years with a regular exhibition program can apply for grants between €5,000 and €35,000, covering costs for contemporary art projects including exhibitions, lectures, concerts, and conferences scheduled from January to May 2021. Eligible expenses include transport, insurance, communication, additional staff, and online presentations. Applications must be submitted to the Art Fund Foundation by October 31, 2020, with an independent jury selecting recipients in November. Culture Minister Monika Grütters emphasized the essential role of gallerists in discovering and supporting artists, and the need to help galleries resume planned projects and develop digital formats. The article contrasts Germany's sustained support with Italy's lack of targeted aid for galleries, noting the cancellation of fairs like miart and Artissima, and the risk of widening the gap between top and small galleries.