URBAN ART BIENNALE 2026
The URBAN ART BIENNALE is one of the world's largest exhibitions of this anarchic art form beyond the conventional white cube aesthetic. Since 2011, every two years, the entire Völklinger Hütte site has become a congenial dialogue partner for art that has developed from street art and graffiti. In 2026, the Biennale will move even closer to its audience.
Workshops, live actions, and participatory formats invite visitors not only to view urban art, but also to help shape it. Young people, local initiatives, and international artists come together to share techniques, stories, and attitudes.
Unlock Book Fair Völklingen 2026
Unlock Book Fair Völklingen 2026
From May 8 to 10, 2026, the Völklinger Hütte World Cultural Heritage Site will become a meeting place for the urban art scene: The Unlock Book Fair is celebrating its 10th anniversary! On the occasion of the Urban Art Biennale 2026, the trade fair brings together literature on historical mural painting, street photography, and street art, as well as publications on contemporary art related to graffiti and subcultures. Whether Urbex, hobo, rave, punk, or hip-hop – this is where creative minds, publishers, and those interested in the scene meet to find inspiration, exchange ideas, and discover special publications. Be there and experience three days full of urban culture, exciting encounters, and exclusive book discoveries at the Unlock Book Fair 2026!
OPEN CALL for UNLOCK BOOK FAIR 2026
Vorlaeufiges Unfaisl Boork Motov
The open call is aimed at all players in the graffiti book scene, including publishers, authors, bookstores, distributors, and printers, as well as galleries and institutions that publish books on contemporary art and culture related to graffiti.
In addition, the open call is aimed at film producers, distributors, and directors who would like to present their film projects at the fair.
The Unlock Book Fair is open to the public:
Friday, May 8, 2026, 1:00 p.m.—6:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 9, 2026, 11:00 a.m.—7:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 10, 2026, 11:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m.
Application deadline
The application deadline is March 20, 2026.
ALL FURTHER INFORMATION AND THE COMPLETE SCHEDULE CAN BE FOUND HERE.
With the kind support of
