With opening hours from 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays and Saturday mornings, the gallery welcomes art lovers, casual visitors, and even school groups interested in exploring the world of contemporary art.

Founded in 2011 by Gillian Catto, a respected figure in the international art scene who ran a successful gallery in London for over 30 years, ArtCatto was born from her desire to bring more high-quality art to the Algarve. And that is exactly what she has done.

Variety of styles

ArtCatto showcases international artists, with a strong emphasis on quality and innovation. While the gallery features a range of styles, there is a noticeable focus on urban and pop art, reflecting current global trends in contemporary creativity. Many of the artists represented are well-established names with global followings, making ArtCatto a key player in the region’s cultural landscape.

In addition to its Loulé location, ArtCatto has a long-standing partnership with Conrad Algarve in Quinta do Lago, where a permanent collection is displayed and exhibitions, as well as cultural events, are regularly hosted. These include collaborations with embassies, such as Chinese cultural evenings attended by Chinese artists and representatives from the Chinese Embassy, or Indian-themed events that have even welcomed the Indian Ambassador. These gatherings blend art, culture, and diplomacy, offering a unique and enriching experience for guests.


While the gallery typically focuses on figurative art, this time they are offering something a little different—the upcoming exhibition will spotlight abstract artists, bringing a fresh perspective to ArtCatto’s carefully curated program. The next event is set for 17 July, featuring the work of American abstract artists called Stallman - a collaborative name representing Jason Hallman and Stephen Stum. It promises to be a visually captivating evening.

Collaborating with Vila Vita Parc

ArtCatto is also collaborating with Vila Vita Parc through a pop-up space called Art in the Parc, located within the V-Life Shops. This cultural initiative will remain open until the end of the year, offering another opportunity to engage with contemporary works in a unique setting.

My experience

During my visit, I was warmly welcomed by Frederic Ponte, who gave me a detailed guided tour of both the gallery space and the artworks on display. His deep knowledge and passion for the art and the artists were immediately evident—it is clear that he truly enjoys what he does.

Frederic Ponte, the gallery's director, has been part of ArtCatto since 2013. After completing his degree in business management, Frederic originally joined to support the gallery’s operations and handle accounting. Over time, however, his role has evolved significantly—he now plays a key part in curating exhibitions, selecting artists, and shaping the artistic direction of the gallery. He has become the right-hand of owner Gillian Catto, who is closely involved in every aspect of the gallery.


“ArtCatto also offers a comprehensive service for buyers, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience from purchase to installation”, as the director explains. For clients based in the Algarve, the gallery takes care of transport and in-home installation. If a client is unsure about the right size of painting or how a piece will fit with their interior design, the gallery director is happy to offer guidance and advice. For international clients, ArtCatto ensures that artworks are professionally packed, fully insured, and safely shipped—whether within Europe or beyond—so each piece of art arrives at the destination in perfect condition, ready to be enjoyed. “We work with different partners when it comes to shipping, handling bureaucracy, and navigating the entire customs process,” explains gallery director Frederic Ponte. We know exactly what paperwork is required, so the client doesn’t have to worry about a thing.

Discovering new talents

When it comes to discovering new talent, ArtCatto takes a thoughtful approach to finding new artists and increasingly relies on the digital art scene, which has become a valuable resource in the search for standout work. Many artists also approach ArtCatto directly, hoping to be part of its growing reputation. Regardless of where they’re found, one thing all ArtCatto artists have in common is exceptional quality. The gallery proudly represents a range of internationally recognised artists, including several prominent Portuguese names.

The latest exhibition

The latest exhibition at ArtCatto features works by renowned artists Voka, Thomas Bossard, and Dom Pattinson—each known for their bold, distinctive styles. Exhibitions at the gallery are carefully planned a year in advance, ensuring thoughtful curation and a high standard of presentation. On average, around six exhibitions are held each year, split between ArtCatto’s main gallery in Loulé and its long-standing partner location at the Conrad Algarve Hotel. This consistent rotation keeps the gallery experience dynamic and engaging for both new visitors and returning collectors.

To keep up with the latest exhibitions, artist features, and upcoming events, follow @artcatto_gallery on Instagram or visit artcatto.com.


Author

Tereza Pedro is originally from Slovakia and now based in the Algarve, with a master’s in mass media. Passionate about lifestyle and storytelling, she captures the essence of daily life through a blend of creativity, international perspective, and coastal living—all while raising her son.

Tereza Pedro