The Works：Art Basel HK & Art Central; Para Site@Art Basel & Art Tram Project

Thanks to the gradual relaxation of social distancing rules and Covid-restrictions in venues, and to the return of Art Basel Hong Kong and Art Central, the city’s art lovers have, in the past couple of weeks, once again had a chance to encounter a wide range of new works from both local and international artists. Although inbound travellers don’t have to spend quite as much time in quarantine as they did over the past two years, Covid-related restrictions still had some effect on both art fairs. Both were scaled down compared to the 2019 editions, partly for logistic reasons and partly because fewer collectors from the mainland and the rest of the world were expected to attend.

As we saw earlier in the show, there was enthusiastic participation from local galleries, collectors, and artists in both Art Basel Hong Kong and Art Central this year. And their enthusiasm was shared by the public. Tickets sold out fast. Apart from giving galleries the chance to present and sell artworks, both fairs collaborate with art and cultural institutions in organising talks and programmes to highlight individual artists and engage with the public. The two fairs might be over for this year, but there are still many ongoing cultural events, and a lot of home-grown artistic talent, for us to keep an eye on.