Art Basel

Art Basel is one of the leading global platforms connecting collectors, galleries, and artists, celebrated for its high-quality modern and contemporary art fairs held annually in Basel, Miami Beach, and Hong Kong. Established in 1970 by gallerists from Basel, Switzerland, Art Basel’s inaugural fair attracted over 16,000 visitors, 90 galleries, and 30 publishers from 10 countries. Since then, it has evolved into a cultural phenomenon that attracts tens of thousands of visitors, including some of the world’s most influential art collectors, museum directors, and curators, as well as a diverse array of artists and art enthusiasts.
The original Basel fair, typically held in June, is the cornerstone of the trio, renowned for its stringent selection process and the quality of artworks presented. It encompasses a wide range of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, installations, videos, multiples, prints, photography, and digital art from the 20th and 21st centuries. The fair is divided into sectors, each focusing on a different type of gallery, artist, or style of work, such as Galleries, Edition, Statements, Feature, Unlimited, and Parcours.
Art Basel Miami Beach, launched in 2002, takes place in December and has become a pivotal cultural event in the Americas, drawing attention to the vibrant art scenes of Latin America, North America, and the Caribbean. The Miami Beach edition is not just about the art displayed within the convention center but also about the numerous satellite fairs, outdoor installations, and parties that transform the city into a bustling art hub.
Art Basel Hong Kong, inaugurated in 2013, occurs in March and serves as a gateway to the Asian art market, showcasing both historical works from Asia and cutting-edge contemporary art from across the globe. This edition emphasizes the cultural richness and diversity of art from Asia and the Asia-Pacific region, including works from established and emerging artists.
Art Basel fairs are more than just marketplaces for buying and selling art; they are significant cultural events that include a program of talks, panel discussions, and commissions, enriching the global art dialogue. The conversations and salons provide a platform for artists, curators, critics, and collectors to discuss key issues in the art world and broader society.
Beyond the fairs, Art Basel plays an active role in supporting the art community through partnerships, initiatives, and digital platforms that facilitate access to the art world year-round. Its influence extends beyond the art market, affecting trends, setting standards, and fostering a deeper appreciation for contemporary art across cultures and continents.