Germany is the second-most represented country at Art Basel in Switzerland this year, with over 40 galleries participating, trailing only the United States. The fair is led by German-born director Maike Cruse, and features prominent German artists including Katharina Grosse, Martin Kippenberger, Tim Eitel, and Jana Schröder. Despite lacking mega-galleries, Germany boasts respected spaces like Galerie Max Hetzler and renowned collectors such as Reinhard Ernst, Julia Stoschek, and the Plattner family. Dealer Gerd Harry Lybke notes Germany's art market is 'very stable' compared to other locations.
This strong presence matters because it reflects Germany's position as a leading arts ecosystem and the fifth-largest art market in Europe. However, Berlin's cultural budget has been cut by €130 million (12%) this year, with further cuts planned for 2026, and Berlin has slipped to third place in gallery representation at Art Basel, overtaken by London. Gallerist Saskia Draxler argues that reduced funding may foster resilience and artistic freedom. The article also highlights Germany's decentralized art scene, with Munich and Cologne as strongholds, and notes that English has become the lingua franca among German-speaking gallerists at the fair.