How did the art market perform in an unprecedented year? Art Month in Hong Kong: exhibitions still rolling even with tough coronavirus restrictions. This year, exhibitors at Art Basel were decreased from 242 to 104 as a response to restricted travel and they ran alongside Art Central and Christie’s at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. 

All of the art exhibitions have been different compared to the ones from previous years, however the importance lies in the fact that the show will go on. Many have expressed concerns of not having international visitors and collectors, however a new light has shed on this year’s exhibitions - people have shifted their focus to the local art scene. Due to this rising attention on local and community art, many feel the city’s art scene is regaining a sense of normalcy. 

To sustain the current momentum in Hong Kong, proceeding with major exhibitions such as Art Central and Art Basel has become a starting act of positive signal to the market. It gives confidence for many, who are behind their doors to perform arts. 

This all comes with strict and thorough safety measures. Major exhibitions at HKCEC have worked very closely with the venue management and followed the Hong Kong Government guidance to ensure people’s positive experience at the fair. 

Health & Safety Measures: 

Arriving at the HKCEC

• Please arrive at the HKCEC via the Harbour Rd entrance and follow the signage to Art Central.
• All persons must wear a surgical face mask at all times. No valve masks are allowed. Masks to be worn at all times, only children under the age of 2 are exempt from this rule.
• Masks to be worn at all times.
• No food or drink allowed inside HKCEC unless you are eating at one of the designated restaurants.
• There is no cloakroom facility available on site. Please do not bring backpacks or large bags as we may not be able to guarantee entry.

Entering the Fair

• Entry to the fair is confirmed by advance booking and is free upon registration. We are running a timed entry system, based on two-hour slots to ensure all guests have a comfortable visit.
• Due to venue capacity restrictions, we may not be able to accommodate early or late guests, so please arrive during your selected two-hour timed entry session.
• Before entering, all guests must scan the “LeaveHomeSafe” QR code or leave their names, contact numbers and the dates and times of their visits.
• Passouts and re-entry will not be allowed.

Health & Safety

• All exhibitors, staff and attendees will complete a daily health and safety screening temperature check. Everyone will be asked to provide forward contact details in the event test and trace is required.
• Hand sanitation will be available throughout the venue. Please be encouraged to wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer provided.
• Capacity has been reduced in line with current government guidelines.
• Daily environmental cleaning and disinfection is conducted. Regular cleaning and disinfection are maintained within the hall.
• Maintain social distancing and keep 1.5m apart.
• No gathering in groups over 4 persons.

Hong Kong’s art scene is now even more unified due to the whole suppression caused by the restrictions felt during this pandemic. This year institutions are holding a more spread out art week, allowing for social distancing. With the city going through so much, we hope to be supportive and cooperative to make a productive art community here in Hong Kong. Together, we make art. #FIF