Art Basel Hong Kong opened its doors on Friday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center, featuring a vibrant display of artworks from 240 galleries around the globe. The three-day event, which runs through Sunday, marks a significant gathering for art enthusiasts, collectors, and creators alike.
This year’s fair is divided into six distinct sections, highlighting a diverse array of both established blue-chip galleries and emerging independent artists. The mix reflects Art Basel’s commitment to showcasing a broad spectrum of contemporary art.
Angelle Siyang-Le, director of Art Basel Hong Kong, noted a notable shift in attendance trends. “Collectors from Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland are the two biggest participating groups this year, while attendance from Southeast Asia—especially Singapore and the Philippines—has risen significantly,” she remarked. This surge in participation underscores the fair’s growing influence in the region and its ability to attract a wider audience.
At a separate event on Friday, Noah Horowitz, CEO of Art Basel, emphasized Hong Kong’s pivotal role as a cultural bridge. “I’m incredibly proud to see a city that is extraordinarily rich in its cultures and has a defined contemporary scene,” Horowitz stated. He highlighted the increasing number of blue-chip galleries and auction houses establishing themselves in the city, further solidifying its status in the global art market.
Founded in Basel, Switzerland, in 1970, Art Basel expanded to Hong Kong in 2013, and now takes place annually in Basel, Miami Beach, and Hong Kong. The fair continues to evolve, reflecting the dynamic nature of the contemporary art landscape and the unique cultural narratives that artists bring to the forefront.
As Art Basel Hong Kong unfolds, it promises to be a vibrant celebration of creativity, innovation, and the interconnectedness of global art communities.