Art4.Ru Contemporary Art Museum

Art4.Ru Contemporary Art Museum Moscow – Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Moscow, the Art4.Ru Contemporary Art Museum (ART4) stands as Russia’s first private institution exclusively dedicated to contemporary Russian art. Since its founding in 2007 by collector Igor Markin, ART4 has transformed the landscape of Moscow’s art scene, evolving from a traditional museum with a permanent collection to a vibrant, hybrid model that blends rotating exhibitions, art sales, and community-driven programming. Today, ART4 is recognized as a cultural hub where visitors can experience the latest in Russian contemporary art, participate in art fairs such as the acclaimed “DEAD END,” and engage directly with artists through the innovative TUPIK Art Hub.

This guide provides all the essential information for planning your visit, including current visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, highlights of exhibitions, practical visitor tips, and nearby attractions. It also explores ART4’s history, its evolution, and its central role in supporting emerging and established artists within Moscow’s dynamic cultural landscape. For the most up-to-date details, visitors are encouraged to consult ART4’s official website and trusted platforms such as Cosmoscow, Wikipedia, and obdn.ru.

Introduction
History and Evolution of ART4
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Exhibitions, Programs, and the TUPIK Art Hub
Location and Nearby Moscow Attractions
Visitor Tips and FAQs
Visuals and Media
Conclusion and Visitor Summary
References and Further Resources

History and Evolution of ART4

Founding and Early Years (2007–2008)

ART4 was established in 2007 by Igor Markin, responding to a critical gap in Russia’s cultural infrastructure—a private, independent museum dedicated solely to contemporary Russian art (Wikipedia). Its opening marked a major milestone, providing a platform for post-Soviet artists whose works were often underrepresented in state museums. ART4’s initial home in the Khlynovsky cul-de-sac housed a permanent collection of over 1,000 pieces, featuring renowned artists such as Eric Bulatov, Oleg Vasiliev, Vladimir Veisberg, Ilya Kabakov, Komar and Melamid, and many others (Cosmoscow).

Shifts in Accessibility and Programming (2008–2015)

Facing the challenges common to private museums in Russia, ART4 gradually reduced its public hours, eventually opening primarily for annual events like the “Night of Museums” (Cosmoscow). This created a sense of exclusivity around its exhibitions, maintaining ART4’s reputation as a unique and somewhat enigmatic institution in Moscow’s art scene.

Relaunch and New Concept (2015–Present)

In December 2015, ART4 underwent a major transformation. Embracing the slogan “Museum selling Art,” it shifted from a static collection to a dynamic model featuring monthly rotating exhibitions and active art sales (Cosmoscow, The Art Newspaper). This innovative hybrid of museum and gallery dissolves barriers between viewing and acquiring art, ensuring that each visit offers fresh perspectives and direct engagement with the latest trends in Russian contemporary art.

Annual “DEAD END” Art Fair

Since 2022, ART4 has hosted the annual “DEAD END” contemporary art fair, a highlight of Moscow’s cultural calendar. Operated on an open-call basis, the fair democratizes access to the museum’s exhibition space, welcoming a broad spectrum of artists and awarding prizes such as a solo exhibition, acquisition into the museum’s collection, and a cash award. The 2023 edition featured notable artists like Dima Filippov, Anya Acorn, and Mikhail Pershko (Cosmoscow).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Standard Hours: Typically open Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
Variations: Hours may change during exhibition installations or for special events. Always confirm on the official website or by phone: +7 (499) 686-15-52.

Tickets

General Admission: 300–500 RUB.
Discounts: Available for students, seniors, and groups.
Special Events: Some exhibitions (such as the “DEAD END” fair) may require separate tickets or advance booking.
Purchase: Buy tickets online at ART4.Ru or at the entrance.

Accessibility

ART4 is wheelchair accessible and situated on the first floor.
Visitors with special needs are encouraged to contact the museum in advance for additional assistance.

Exhibitions, Programs, and the TUPIK Art Hub

Monthly Rotating Exhibitions

ART4’s programming features monthly solo and group exhibitions by both established and emerging contemporary Russian artists. The museum’s “museum that sells art” model means many works are available for purchase, making it a favorite among collectors and art enthusiasts (Wikipedia).

TUPIK Art Hub

Launched in 2024, the TUPIK Art Hub is ART4’s artist-driven platform for experimentation and community engagement (obdn.ru). Through open calls and curated selections, TUPIK hosts new projects each month, offering residencies, workshops, and public events that foster dialogue between artists and audiences. The ART4 Prize and solo exhibition opportunities further support talent development (Art4.Ru TUPIK).

Location and Nearby Moscow Attractions

Address and Directions

Primary Address: 23/2 Gagarinsky Lane (1st entrance, 1st floor), Moscow, RF 119034 (Cosmoscow Gallery Listing)
Metro: Nearest stations include Kropotkinskaya and Park Kultury.
Parking: Limited; public transport or taxi is recommended.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit with iconic Moscow sites such as:

Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts
Tretyakov Gallery
Gorky Park
Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
Red Square and the State Historical Museum (TravelSetu)

Visitor Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Tips for Visitors

Plan Ahead: Always check exhibition schedules and visiting hours before your visit.
Language: Most signage is in Russian. English-speaking staff availability varies.
Photography: Permitted in most areas (without flash or tripods), but always verify at the entrance.
Time Allocation: 1–2 hours is recommended for a full experience.
Payment: Credit cards widely accepted; carry cash for small purchases.

FAQ

Q: How do I buy ART4 tickets?
A: Online at ART4.Ru or on-site, depending on exhibition.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Offered occasionally in Russian; check the website for schedules.

Q: Is the museum suitable for children?
A: Yes, but some contemporary works may be best suited for mature audiences.

Q: Is ART4 wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramp and elevator access.

Q: Can I purchase art at ART4?
A: Yes, ART4 operates as a “museum that sells art,” with works available for sale.

Q: Are there nearby attractions?
A: Yes, including Pushkin Museum, Gorky Park, and the Tretyakov Gallery.

Visuals and Media

To maximize your experience, preview exhibitions, artist interviews, and event highlights on the official ART4 website. When sharing photos, use alt text such as “ART4 Contemporary Art Museum Moscow” and “TUPIK Art Hub exhibition space.”

Conclusion and Visitor Summary

ART4 Contemporary Art Museum stands as a pioneering force in Moscow’s art landscape, offering an ever-changing gateway to Russian contemporary creativity. Its innovative blend of rotating exhibitions, art-for-sale model, and community engagement through the TUPIK Art Hub make it a must-visit for anyone interested in art, culture, and creative dialogue. Centrally located and accessible, ART4 is ideal for integrating into a broader Moscow cultural itinerary.

For current exhibitions, ticketing, and practical updates, always consult the ART4 official website and follow their social media channels. Enhance your journey with the Audiala app for curated tours and insider tips.