Over the past two decades, ZⓈONAMACO has not only redefined the contemporary art landscape in Mexico but has also cemented its position as the leading art fair in Latin America. What began as a platform to nurture the Mexican art scene has transformed into a global hub for cultural exchange, fostering a dialogue that extends far beyond the region.
To understand the fair’s evolution and its impact on the international art scene, we spoke with Zélika García, the visionary founder of ZⓈONAMACO. She reflects on how the fair has grown to consolidate Mexico City as a global cultural epicenter, driving conversations between artists, curators, and collectors while expanding opportunities for Latin American artists on the world stage. With Mexico City now firmly established as an international art capital, this year fair’s edition reflects the fair’s ongoing commitment to artistic innovation and market expansion.
In anticipation of the upcoming fair, we explore its evolution, impact, and the must-see moments that will define Art Week in Mexico City, offering insights from Zélika García and the key figures shaping the event.
Evolution and Impact of ZⓈONAMACO
Q: This year marks another exciting edition of ZⓈONAMACO. How do you see the evolution of the fair since its founding, and what role does it play today in shaping the Latin American art market?
A: Since its founding 21 years ago, ZⓈONAMACO has become the leading contemporary art fair in Latin America and an international benchmark. What we started as a platform to foster, collect and strengthen the Mexican art scene has grown, consolidating Mexico City as a global cultural epicenter. Today, ZⓈONAMACO not only drives the Latin American art market but also generates dialogues between artists, curators, collectors, and institutions worldwide. Our fair has been part of the international projection of Mexican and Latin American art, supporting its presence in collections and institutional spaces globally.
Highlights and Themes for the 2025 Edition
Q: Can you share some of the standout galleries, artists, or curated sections that define this year's fair? Is there an overarching theme or narrative emerging for 2025?
A: This year, ZⓈONAMACO reaffirms its commitment to contemporary art through a careful selection of galleries and curated sections that explore current art trends. The ZⓈONAMACO EJES section continues to be a fundamental space for experimental and critical discourse, while ZⓈONAMACO SUR delves into curatorial narratives with innovative approaches. Additionally, our collaboration with the Erarta Foundation, which awards a $100,000 USD prize to the artist most voted by the public, is one of the most exciting initiatives this year.
This year also highlights the integration of an online fair in collaboration with Always Art, which will allow collectors from around the world to access and acquire works digitally. With this expansion, we aim to adapt to the current dynamics of the market and continue innovating in how art is experienced and commercialized.
Must-See Exhibitions and Events during Art Week
Q: Along with ZⓈONAMACO, Mexico City’s Art Week is filled with exhibitions and events. What exhibitions or cultural events are essential for collectors and art lovers visiting the city next week?
A: For the past 21 years, we’ve nurtured and consolidated Art Week in Mexico City, a collaborative effort between galleries, museums, institutions, and collectors to attract international attention—this phenomenon now defines the city's cultural calendar.
From this platform, efforts have been joined to present exhibitions and activities surrounding the fair. This year, besides ZⓈONAMACO, I recommend visiting exhibitions at the Tamayo Museum, the MUAC, and the Jumex Museum. Also, a visit to galleries like kurimanzutto, OMR, and PROYECTOS MONCLOVA, which feature international contemporary art projects, is a must.
Within ZⓈONAMACO, our conversation program brings together key figures from the art world, such as Estrellita B. Brodsky and José Roca, who will discuss collecting as activism, as well as a panel with directors of international institutions on the current challenges facing museums. This edition will also feature the awarding of important prizes, such as the Erarta Foundation Art Prize and the Tequila 1800 Collection Prize, continuing to position the fair as a global art epicenter.
Advice for International Art Enthusiasts
Q: For international visitors coming to Mexico City for Art Week, what are your personal recommendations, whether it's a lesser-known gallery, a must-visit cultural institution, or even a favorite local spot for dining and relaxing?
A: Mexico City is a fascinating destination for any art lover. Museums like the Tamayo Museum, the MUAC, the Museum of Modern Art, or the Jumex Museum should be on your agenda for the week, as their programming adds to the fair's parallel activities, with inaugurations, conferences, and several special events.The experience can be complemented after a day of art with culinary offerings such as Kakurega Omakase, which serves an exquisite Japanese menu, and Cuerno, which offers innovative Mexican cuisine. For taco lovers, El Califa is a must-stop, while Cancino delights with artisan pizzas, pastas, and high-quality salads. If you prefer Mediterranean flavors, Bistro at Humano is a great choice, and for classic fast food, Shake Shack brings its iconic burgers and milkshakes. For something sweet, Ladurée offers French macarons, and Nevería Roxy serves artisanal ice creams and sorbets with fresh seasonal fruits.
Mexico City as a Global Art Hub
Q: With the growing global recognition of Mexico City as a cultural epicenter, how do you think ZⓈONAMACO will contribute to this momentum? What makes the city a destination for artists, collectors, and institutions?
A: Mexico City has become a reference point for global art thanks to its diversity, vibrant scene, and blend of history and avant-garde. ZⓈONAMACO has played an important role in this positioning, attracting collectors, curators, and artists from around the world and facilitating the growth of the art market in the region.
What sets the city apart is its unique energy, where everything from pre-Hispanic art to the most contemporary expressions coexist in the same ecosystem. With each edition of the fair, we strive to strengthen this dynamism—not just by showcasing art but also by fostering connections and dialogues that transcend borders. We will continue working to ensure that ZⓈONAMACO ART WEEK remains a reference platform for art in Latin America and the world.
Interview by Michael Klug, Whitewall Magazine
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