Heading To Art Basel Hong Kong? Here Are 5 Things You Shouldn't Miss.
This edition showcases the work of Pacita Abad, the late Filipino-born American Ivatan visual artist, presented by Tina Kim Gallery (New York) and Silverlens (Manila, New York)
Courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong
With world-class bars and restaurants, incredible shopping, and beautiful hiking trails—you'll find fun in just about every corner of Hong Kong. There's a week in the year when it goes on overdrive: at the end of March when Art Basel Hong Kong rolls around.
Since its first edition in 2013, Art Basel Hong Kong has become the default meeting place for artists, dealers, collectors and all types of art enthusiasts. This year, Asia-Pacific's premier art fair opens on March 28, and there's a whole lot of exhibitions, events, creative talks and parties to enjoy.
Angelle Siyang-Le, Director of Art Basel Hong Kong, loves the fact that it's more than the usual event. 'Our fair is more than just a platform for buying and selling art; it's a dynamic intersection of global art worlds through extensive public programs that extend beyond the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre,' she says.
Angelle Siyang-Le, Fair Director of Art Basel Hong Kong
Courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong
Having lived in London, Dubai, and Vancouver before moving to Hong Kong, Siyang-Le says her international upbringing has profoundly influenced her approach to her current role. 'Each city has its distinct cultural identity and creative pulse, teaching me the importance of embracing and celebrating unique offerings. This experience has reinforced the idea that art transcends borders—whether they are geographic, cultural, or personal.'
Siyang-Le says this sense of openness is at the heart of the Hong Kong fair and all Art Basel shows. 'It's about fostering dialogue, embracing diverse voices, and expanding perspectives through art,' she adds.
With the upcoming edition more ambitious than ever, a quick glance at the offerings and calendar could make one feel overwhelmed. If you're heading to Art Basel Hong Kong 2025, heed Siyang-Le's advice on this year's highlights.
There are dozens of exhibitors at Art Basel Hong Kong, but it pays to prioritise the new arrivals. 'It's always exciting to see what first-time exhibitors bring to the fair. Anant Art Gallery, in Insights, is showcasing three decades of works by Pakistani artist Aisha Khalid,' says Siyang-Le.
Aisha Khalid, I Am and I Am Not Series (Diptych), 2023 Gouache on wasli paper 7.5 x 10 inches each
Courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong
She also recommends Blank Projects, which is presenting a solo booth by Igshaan Adams featuring large scale tapestries inspired by Indigenous South African dancers. Hong Kong gallery, Property Holdings Development Group (PHD Group) is also making its debut this year. 'They're premiering an interactive installation by Michele Chu that transforms a domestic kitchen into a space exploring themes of cooking and mourning.'
After you've walked a bit of the fair, make your way to the Encounters sector, which houses large-scale projects that go beyond the art show stand. 'It will feature 18 exceptional installations foregrounding the realms of digital art, design and architecture, textiles, nature, and human interactions,' says Siyang-Le. 'Out of the total number of pieces, 14 works are being created specifically for the fair.'
Jessica Silverman presents 'Cosmic Trees' by Istanbul-born artist Hayal Pozanti
Courtesy of Art Basel Hong Kong 2025
Another highlight is Kabinett, a 'jewel box' sector woven throughout the fair rather than in one concentrated space. 'With 38 participating galleries—the highest number in the fair's history—it offers a unique way to experience focused presentations.'
This year's film program is in collaboration with Para Site, Hong Kong's leading contemporary art center and one of Asia's oldest independent art institutions, which will steer the curatorial direction.
'The reason for this partnership is to provide a platform for young curators to engage with an international audience. By collaborating with them, we also aim to inject fresh perspectives and energy into the fair,' says Siyang-Le.
What to expect? Para Site's curatorial team put together a compelling lineup of seven screenings featuring works of 30 artists, exploring themes ranging from ecological interdependence and resilience under societal constraints to human desires and the evolving technological landscapes shaping our increasingly hybrid world. 'A standout in this year's program is Vampires in Space (2022), a feature film by Isadora Neves Marques, which will have its own special screening. It's definitely one to put on your list!'
There are numerous highlights of the public program, which are entirely free for everyone to enjoy. Siyang-Le singled out three, the first of which is Night Charades by Ho Tzu Nyen, a co-commission with M+ and presented by UBS. 'This is set to transform the M+ facade into a dynamic tribute to Hong Kong cinema, visible from many parts of Victoria Harbour.'
Pacific Place hosts 'Lanternfly Ballet' by Monster Chetwynd
Courtesy of Pacific Place
It's an easy hop from the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre to Pacific Place where Lanternfly Ballet by Monster Chetwynd is displayed. 'This interactive, site-specific installation combines live performances with nature-themed sculptures, creating a fantastical ecosystem,' she shares.
Lastly, Art Basel Hong Kong has a collaboration with Tai Kwun called The Artists' Night, which 'promises an experimental experience with performances across Tai Kwun's sites.'
This year marks the launch of the new MGM Discoveries Art Prize, dedicated to supporting emerging artists at a pivotal stage in their careers. Earlier this year, Art Basel announced a shortlist featuring three outstanding artists: Shin Min, represented by P21 gallery in Seoul; Kayode Ojo, represented by Sweetwater in Berlin; and Saju Kunhan, represented by Tarq in Mumbai.
'Each brings a distinct and compelling perspective to the fair. The winner, who will be announced during the fair, will receive $50,000—shared with their representing gallery—along with an exhibition in Macau, further amplifying their work on an international stage.'
Art Basel Hong Kong runs from March 28 to 30, 2025.
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