Highlights of Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 unveiled

The highly anticipated 2025 Art Basel Hong Kong is set to showcase 240 galleries from 42 countries and regions, including 23 first-time participants.

In collaboration with UBS as the global lead partner, the event will take place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center from Friday to Sunday (March 28-30), with two days for VIP visitors on Wednesday and Thursday (March 26-27).

Visitors admire exhibits at last year’s Art Basel Hong Kong. China News Service

This year’s Art Basel Hong Kong promises a diverse array of artistic practices, reflecting its commitment to global representation and regional diversity. Notably, over 50% of the participating galleries will come from the Asia-Pacific region, reinforcing the event’s role as a vital platform for promoting the growth of the art scene in this dynamic area.

The newly established “Encounters” section, dedicated to large-scale projects, will feature 18 impressive installation works focusing on digital art, design, architecture, textiles, nature, and human interaction. Over half of these works will be newly created for this edition.

This year will mark the third consecutive presentation of an off-site installation, with Monster Chetwynd’s “Lanternfly Ballet” to be exhibited at Pacific Place, supported by Swire Properties, the official partner for off-site projects in the “Encounters” section.

The “Kabinett” section will spotlight thematic exhibitions within the booths of participating galleries, showcasing a record-setting total of 36 projects. This will include solo exhibitions featuring contemporary and historical Asian artists, representing 21 artists from the Asia-Pacific region and 15 from other parts of the world.

The “MGM Discoveries Art Prize,” specifically created for the Hong Kong edition, will recognize and support emerging artists, unveiling the shortlist of nominees alongside an esteemed panel of international judges.

To enhance the cultural vibrancy of Hong Kong, the event will offer a variety of public programs both onsite and offsite. Visitors can enjoy free access to the “Film,” “Conversations,” and “Exchange Circle” sections at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center. Additionally, collaborations with leading cultural institutions like M+ and Tai Kwun will feature joint off-site projects.

For the first time, the “Film” section will be curated by Para Site, presenting seven screenings and the works of 30 artists. Continuing its commitment to video art, the fair will collaborate with the cultural video channel Nowness Asia and the non-profit Videotage.

The 2025 edition will expand its support for creative fields and welcome new cultural partners, including Design Trust, HASS Lab, and Tomorrow Maybe.

An Art Basel Shop will make its debut, offering a selection of lifestyle products.