Hong Kong is once again playing host to the international-traveling Art Basel fair amid strict COVID-19 restrictions and mass lockdowns. Initially set to launch in March, the fair will now run from May 25 to 29 in the similar off- and online “hybrid” model which was introduced last year. The fair’s “ghost booths” will be staffed by local employees instead of representatives by dealers as the city is hampered by inbound travel restrictions and a mandatory quarantine. Altogether, 130 galleries from 28 countries and territories will be participating in the event with 15 of the bunch as first-time exhibitors.
“Museums and non-profit institutions are expected to reopen gradually after 20 April, with further social distancing restrictions relaxed, and we are fully prepared to present another successful Hong Kong edition in full compliance with government guidelines,” said Adeline Ooi, Art Basel’s director in Asia, in a statement.
While restrictions in Hong Kong may deter international travelers as well as locals from attending the city’s art-related festivities, HypeArt wants to bring the community together digitally to celebrate Asia-based galleries and platforms that are spearheading dynamic curation. We reached out to Kaikai Kiki, NANZUKA, The SHOPHOUSE, Double Q Gallery, JPS Gallery and AllRightsReserved for an exclusive spotlight of respective works for our HypeArt Market, programs they are launching this week and their connection as well as inspiration behind the pieces presented.
May 25, 2022
