21st March 2023 – (Hong Kong) Art Basel Hong Kong (ABHK) returns for its second in-person fair since the COVID pandemic. The event serves as a calling card to not just art enthusiasts but the entire world to descend on the vibrant city after years of strict measures were finally lifted. Despite doubts within the art community that Art Basel would pull away from Hong Kong, the fair has shown to be a catalyst to growing the art market in the city. On the first day of the private view, numerous collectors and fashion enthusiasts were seen sporting their daring attire, creating a lively and bustling ambiance unlike the previous year.
ABHK director Siyang-Le expressed in a past interview that “Our show has not only established itself as the leading platform for Modern and contemporary art in the region, it’s also deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of a city whose art scene continues to go from strength to strength.” The 2023 edition of the fair will boast 177 exhibitors from 32 countries, including the return of the Encounters section, which spotlights large-scale works.
This year, the Encounters section makes its return, highlighting large-scale works. Other notable sections include Insights, Discoveries, Film, Magazines, Conversations, and Kabinett, the latter of which features thematic solo exhibitions.
Among the fair’s highlights are Agnes Martin’s Tranquility (2000) painting and Robert Rauschenberg’s Twirling Gig (Runt). The event also spotlights Asian artists through its Pace Program, including Song Dong, Qiu Xiaofei, Yin Xiuzhen, Zhang Xiaogang from China, Yoshitomo Nara from Japan, Lee Kun-Yong and Lee Ufan from South Korea.
Tokyo-based NANZUKA gallery will showcase works by Keiichi Tanaami, Hajime Sorayama, Daniel Arsham, Roby Dwi Antono, Hebru Brantley, Jean Jullien, and Christian Rex van Minnen. The booth’s installation is composed by artist Hiroki Tsukuda, inviting viewers to reflect on the present-day circumstances.
Victoria Miro gallery will present new and historical works by Milton Avery, Hernan Bas, María Berrío, Alice Neel, and Flora Yukhnovich, amongst others. The gallery will also showcase two works by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, including a new Infinity Room in collaboration with David Zwirner New York.
David Zwirner Gallery will showcase Elizabeth Peyton’s first art fair showing, including a portrait of Lucas Zwirner, head of content at the gallery. The slightly abstract monotype is made up of soft blues, aquamarines, violets, and beiges. While rumors of a romantic relationship between Peyton and Lucas Zwirner have circulated for months, neither has publicly addressed the speculation. Peyton’s move to David Zwirner Gallery is bad news for London gallery Sadie Coles, which previously represented the artist. Peyton’s market is on the rise, with her 2003 painting Nick with His Eyes Shut selling for US$2.5 million with fees during the Now sale at Sotheby’s last year. Art Basel Hong Kong offers a rare opportunity to view works from established and emerging artists, making it a must-attend event for art lovers and collectors.
Opening Hours:
Private View
- Tuesday, 21st March, 12 noon to 8pm
- Wednesday, 22nd March, 12 noon to 5pm
- Thursday, 23rd March, 12 noon to 2pm
- Friday, 24th March, 12 noon to 2pm
- Saturday, 25th March, 11am to 12 noon
Vernissage
- Wednesday, 22nd March, 5pm to 9pm
Show Hours
- Thursday, 23rd March, 2pm to 8pm
- Friday, 24th March, 2pm to 8pm
- Saturday, 25th March, 12 noon to 6pm
Venue:
Convention & Exhibition Centre
1 Harbour Road
Wan Chai
Hong Kong
To purchase tickets, click HERE.