Belgian modern and contemporary art galleries

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Galleries that are members of BUP engage in commercial activities with the aim of promoting and supporting artistic creativity. They are committed to fulfilling their role as intermediaries between artists and the public in an honest, consistent, and respectful manner. They maintain a clear and fair relationship with their artists, both artistically and commercially. Naturally, they guarantee the authenticity of the artworks they exhibit and sell.

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Becoming a BUP member is essential!
 

BUP, the Belgian Association of Modern and Contemporary Art Galleries, is the only professional association for art galleries in Belgium. Founded in 1979, the association is dedicated to the study, protection, and advancement of its members' professional interests, at regional, national, and international levels. BUP is also a member of FEAGA (Federation of European Art Galleries Associations).

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To this end:

• BUP unites its members (together we are stronger);

• BUP defends the integrity of the gallerist profession through a clear Code of Ethics, and ensures the competence and integrity of its members;

• BUP represents the collective interests of its members to the various governmental bodies in Belgium, in cultural, economic, administrative, social, and fiscal matters;

• BUP promotes cooperation with other associations and organizations pursuing similar goals, such as FEAGA.

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Although they undeniably have a significant cultural and artistic impact, galleries represent only a small part of the overall economy. As actors within the social and cultural landscape, it is therefore in their best interest to unite — so that there is a strong, unified voice in the debates that directly or indirectly affect the art world as a whole.

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Successes achieved by BUP include:

• Establishing the highest possible threshold for the application of the artist’s resale right (currently €2,000 in Belgium);

• Securing continued public funding for the international promotion of Belgian artists (e.g. at art fairs);

• Implementing an art acquisition scheme inspired by Dutch and British models, now operating under the name Kunst aan Zet;

• Establishing and maintaining structured dialogue with both Flemish and federal authorities.

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Looking ahead, BUP advocates for:

• A reduced VAT rate of 6% on the trade of artworks (similar to the VAT rate applied to books);

• Clear and accurate information for its members (and the public) regarding the anti-money laundering regulations for galleries, in effect since January 1, 2022;

• Proper implementation of the artist’s resale right;

• The implementation of the forthcoming European Accessibility Act;

• And copyright regulations — to name just a few of the key dossiers BUP is actively engaged in.

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Anyone starting a business — whether as a promotional gallery or an art dealer — inevitably pays the same price of trial and error, due to the lack of formal training opportunities. BUP members, however, can always turn to their professional association for support and reliable, first-hand information — for instance, regarding model agreements between galleries and artists.

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BUP is committed to continued collaboration with all gallerists and public authorities to ensure the future of this vibrant sector, and to foster the growth of our shared artistic heritage — for both the creating artist and the curious, art-loving public.

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Eendracht maakt macht,  L’union fait la force