Korean art fascinates Hong Kong
This year’s Art Basel Hong Kong shines the spotlight on South Korean artists, bringing to the forefront budding names and established artists alike
By Kwon Mee-yoo
The art world’s attention is transfixed upon Hong Kong as the largest art fair in Asia opened for preview Tuesday. Hong Kong has become the third largest art market in the world thanks to its tax benefits and Korean galleries are finding a way out in Hong Kong amid a domestic slump.
Over 242 galleries from 34 countries take part in the fifth edition of the largest art fair in Asia held at the Alexandra House. Some 3,000 artworks from A-list artists such as Pablo Picasso, Francis Bacon and Cy Twombly to budding young talents will be on display for sale through Saturday.
Korean artists in spotlight
A handful of top Korean galleries are taking part in the art event, pulling out the cream of the crop to capture the attention of art aficionados, collectors and curators flying to Hong Kong.
Art Basel Hong Kong has a few subsectors including Insights, Discoveries, Kabinett and Encounters. The Insights sector presents works of artists based in the Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. The 313 Art Project introduces Park Ki-won’s site-specific installation “Ruin” and painting series “Width,” while the Leeahn Gallery presents Park Jong-kyu’s “Project on Maze of Onlookers,” showcasing diversity of Korean contemporary art.
