Hong Kong’s biggest week for art is upon us. The city will become an art carnival from March 24th through the 27th. Art Basel, Art Central and the Asia Contemporary Art Show will be in full swing, and it is a perfect opportunity to get an up close and personal look at not only the established artists of the 20th and 21st century, but also emerging ones from around the globe.
Do you want to admire from afar or are you looking to buy? You have the opportunity to do either or both at all three fairs. If you are interested in starting a collection or simply want to add vibrancy to your home, keep in mind that art should evoke an emotional response. Take your time walking through these fairs and discover what type of art moves you, be it paintings, photography, printmaking or sculpture. Ask questions –- the gallerists are there to help you better understand the art and the artists. Trust your instincts. If you love it and see yourself taking pleasure in it everyday, then go for it. Most importantly –- enjoy yourself! This is an incredible opportunity to view the most exciting art worldwide.
Here is the round up:
ART BASEL:
WHAT: The premier international art fair featuring the biggest names in art (think Picasso, Warhol, Koons) plus the preeminent contemporary artists.
WHEN: March 24, 2016 – March 26, 2016
WHERE: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC)
HIGHLIGHTS: 239 galleries, over 4000 artists, large-scale installations, guided tours, talks.
FAMILY AFFAIR: Interactive arts programs specifically for children, including tours.
BUYING POTENTIAL: These galleries are the international heavy hitters. Art will be very expensive (think in the millions).
For more information, visit Art Basel
ART CENTRAL:
WHAT: The younger sibling to Art Basel, a more informal fair highlighting the next generation’s artists.
WHEN: March 23, 2016 – March 26, 2016
WHERE: 9 Lung Wo Road, Central Harbourfront
HIGHLIGHTS: 100 galleries, pop-up restaurants, large-scale installations, talks, performance art, and tours.
FAMILY AFFAIR: KIDS x ART LOOP Program offers an interactive tour of the fair for children aged 5 to 13.
BUYING POTENTIAL: The prices here run the gamut. Look out for RISE: featuring new artists, with works at a lower price point.
For more information, visit Art Central
ASIA CONTEMPORARY ART SHOW:
WHAT: A contemporary art marketplace featuring emerging and mid-career artists.
WHEN: March 24, 2016 – March 27, 2016
WHERE: Conrad Hong Kong, Pacific Place, 40th to 43rd floors
HIGHLIGHTS: 100 exhibitors, over 2,500 works of art, some of the featured artists will be on hand to answer questions about their work.
FAMILY AFFAIR: This is not a child-friendly show. Space is very tight as the art is displayed in hotel rooms.
BUYING POTENTIAL: Prices here will be mostly affordable. This is a good starting point for those new to buying art and are looking to start a collection or buy a piece for their home.
For more information, visit Asia Contemporary Art
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Mark your calendars for the Affordable Art Fair, May 13 through May 15, 2016 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. With over 100 local and international galleries participating, the exhibition gives viewers a wide range of art to choose from with prices ranging between HK$1,000 and HK$100,000. Additionally, a curated part of the fair will include an “Under HK$10,000 Wall”. The fair also offers complimentary art talks, creative workshops and a children’s art studio.
For more information.