International visitors have returned in droves as Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 kicks off, signaling a potential renaissance for the fair and the city’s art scene. The event, which opened its doors to VIPs on March 26, 2025, has seen galleries expressing confidence that this year’s edition will surpass previous years.
Held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 features 242 galleries from 42 countries, showcasing a diverse array of artworks. Notably, the event has attracted a significant number of international collectors, including those from mainland China, despite ongoing economic challenges and an escalating trade war with the United States.
At the David Zwirner gallery, the Shenzhen-based Corridor Foundation made headlines by purchasing a three-meter-high (10-foot) oil painting titled Bob (2025) by Belgian artist Michaël Borremans for a staggering $1.6 million. Gallery owner David Zwirner expressed delight at the sale, noting, "What is nice is that this painting, which is supposed to be the star piece here, was sold to a Shenzhen private foundation." This transaction reflects the renewed buying enthusiasm among collectors.
In addition to the Borremans piece, David Zwirner also reported the sale of a work by renowned artist Yayoi Kusama for $3.5 million, marking one of the fair's leading transactions. Other sales included works by Elizabeth Peyton and Felix Gonzalez-Torres, both fetching $900,000 each.
Angelle Siyang-Le, the director of Art Basel Hong Kong, emphasized the fair's goal of reinforcing Hong Kong's status as a global arts and cultural hub. In an exclusive interview, she stated, "It’s not only about the number of galleries; what we focus on is the content of what the gallery is bringing. I think our galleries continue to bring top quality artworks to our regions." This year, the fair has welcomed 23 newcomers, reflecting a commitment to showcasing fresh talent.
Siyang-Le also highlighted the growing interest from Southeast Asian collectors, particularly from the Philippines and Singapore, noting that attendance from these regions is on the rise. The event is part of a broader initiative to promote local culture and tourism, with plans to create "immersive experience zones" in partnership with the Tourism Board.
Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 runs from March 28 to March 30, 2025, and aims to make art accessible beyond the confines of the convention center. The fair has expanded its reach to public spaces, including the M+ Museum and Tai Kwun, to engage a wider audience.
As the art world converges on Hong Kong, the city’s reputation as a cultural nexus is further solidified by recent investments from major auction houses. Sotheby’s, Christie's, and Bonhams have all established prominent locations in the city, underscoring its significance in the international art market.
Despite concerns that the ongoing US-China trade war might dampen enthusiasm, galleries have reported a positive atmosphere at the fair. David Zwirner noted, "All the tariff talk can affect us, of course, but since it’s all been talk so far, nothing has really bitten." This sentiment was echoed by other dealers who expressed cautious optimism about the sales outlook.
Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 is not just about buying and selling; it also showcases significant artistic achievements. The BMW Group is featuring the 20th BMW Art Car, designed by Julie Mehretu, as part of its Art Car World Tour. This car, incorporating elements from Mehretu's large-scale painting Everywhen, is a testament to the fusion of art and technology.
In conjunction with the Art Car exhibition, BMW is launching the African Film and Media Arts Collective, aimed at nurturing creativity among young African artists and filmmakers through workshops in cities like Dakar, Lagos, and Cape Town.
As the fair unfolds, observers are encouraged to explore a variety of exhibitions occurring throughout Hong Kong Art Week, which began on March 24, 2025. Notable shows include a retrospective of Louise Bourgeois at Hauser & Wirth and a major exhibition at the M+ Museum featuring works by Pablo Picasso alongside contemporary Asian artists.
With the fair poised to attract a diverse audience, the excitement surrounding Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 is palpable. The event not only serves as a marketplace for art but also as a celebration of the vibrant cultural landscape of Hong Kong, reinforcing its position as a leading international art destination.
As the week progresses, galleries and collectors alike will be watching closely to see how the fair continues to unfold and what lasting impacts it might have on the local and global art scenes.
