Sixth Edition of L'ANDART International Art Biennial Concludes in Andorra
The sixth edition of L'ANDART, Andorra's International Art Biennial, drew to a close on November 14, 2025, in Sant Julià de Lòria. Running since September 19, the event served as a significant platform for contemporary artistic creation and critical reflection on the principality's recent history and future trajectory.
A Theme of Reflection and Continuity
The biennial's central theme, 'Pausa per continuar' (Pause to continue), invited participants and visitors to engage in a deep assessment of Andorra's cultural, social, and economic transformations over the past 25 years. This focus extended beyond traditional cultural discourse to encompass broader societal concerns such as urban expansion, public policy, and sustainability. The aim was to encourage a conscious evaluation of the present and a forward-looking perspective on a balanced and habitable future.
Exhibition Spaces and Artistic Contributions
Sant Julià de Lòria was transformed into an open-air gallery, hosting artworks across several key locations. The historic Hotel Pol, dating back to 1931, served as the main hub, featuring contemporary art galleries spread across four floors and a basement. Additionally, a 35-kilometer panoramic route integrated 6 to 10 artistic installations into the natural landscape at iconic sites like Coll de Jou, Fontaneda, Canòlich, Bixessarri, and Aixovall. The Plaça del Solà also hosted a Festival Information Point.
This edition showcased the work of 78 artists representing 20 nationalities, curated by Pere Moles. The guest country for L'ANDART 2025 was Liechtenstein, contributing its unique cultural and artistic vision and fostering an exchange between the two nations. The event also encompassed the Panoramic Festival, which explored the relationship between cinema, photography, and new visual approaches, aiming to strengthen cultural ties between Andorra and Catalonia.
Impact and Accessibility
The biennial emphasized accessibility, with all activities, exhibitions, and installations offered free of charge to the public. This approach aimed to democratize access to culture and encourage broad participation from residents and visitors alike. The event fostered a sense of community, with school visits, groups of seniors, art students, tourists, and locals sharing spaces and engaging with the art. Over 8,000 people visited the Hotel Pol alone, with many more exploring the panoramic route.
According to Cerni Cairat, Mayor of Sant Julià de Lòria, the event not only inaugurated a new edition of the Biennial but also 'recovered for the citizenry an emblematic space like the Hotel Pol.' Mònica Bonell, the Minister of Culture, highlighted L'ANDART's consolidation as a reference point for art in the Pyrenees, noting its success in connecting art with the territory and becoming a collective, national endeavor supported by public institutions and private sponsors. The biennial concluded with a lasting impression, encouraging new ways of looking at Andorra and its future.
The theme of reflection on Andorra's future is important, and using historic spaces like Hotel Pol is commendable. Still, I wonder if the event truly engages with the everyday concerns of average citizens beyond art enthusiasts.
Bringing international artists and diverse perspectives is a great way to boost Andorra's cultural profile. But we need to ensure this doesn't overshadow local artists who might struggle for funding.
The biennial clearly succeeded in attracting a large audience and gaining international recognition. However, it would be beneficial to see more concrete plans for how this cultural momentum translates into long-term economic benefits for local businesses, not just a temporary tourism boost.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
So proud of Andorra for hosting such a diverse, international event.
Donatello
Another event, more traffic. Is it truly sustainable for locals?
Raphael
The theme of reflection on Andorra's future is important, and using historic spaces like Hotel Pol is commendable. Still, I wonder if the event truly engages with the everyday concerns of average citizens beyond art enthusiasts.
Coccinella
Bringing international artists and diverse perspectives is a great way to boost Andorra's cultural profile. But we need to ensure this doesn't overshadow local artists who might struggle for funding.
ZmeeLove
The biennial clearly succeeded in attracting a large audience and gaining international recognition. However, it would be beneficial to see more concrete plans for how this cultural momentum translates into long-term economic benefits for local businesses, not just a temporary tourism boost.