VOLTAshow01 —founded by Kavi Gupta (Kavi Gupta, Chicago), Friedrich Loock (Wohnmaschine, Berlin), Ulrich Voges (Voges + Partner, Frankfurt) and Amanda Coulson—premiered in 2005, parallel to Art Basel and attracted over 10,000 visitors. Conceived as a small but precious gem, the booths were all the same size, diminishing the sense of competition, while interchange and intersection were encouraged between exhibitors in order to create a relaxed atmosphere that was more boutique than shopping mall.

 

In 2006 VOLTAshow02 presented an expanded format in a new, bigger location in the Basel harbor. While allowing for almost double the number of exhibiting international galleries, a project section dedicated to emerging artist solo presentations, specialized publications and a riverside café, the fair still maintained its charming, intimate atmosphere —a lustrous pearl in the rough shell of the industrial setting. On opening day The Art Newspaper declared "VOLTA gets Even Better!"

 

VOLTAshow03 consolidated its success in the industrial Ultra Brag location and introduced a new model so as to maintain the focus on content. Continuing the original idea of presenting a boutique event that is more exhibition than trade fair, VOLTAshow03 formed a Curatorial Board to advise in the selection process.