Artistic Powerhouse

Leveraging the thriving art scene in Hong Kong, the renowned Swiss gallery Hauser & Wirth is making a strategic move by relocating to a prominent street-level space in the city’s bustling central business district.

Hong Kong’s flourishing art scene has long attracted artists, collectors, and enthusiasts from around the world, establishing itself as a vibrant cultural hub. Currently, it ranks among the three largest art markets globally. In 2018, Hauser & Wirth expanded to Hong Kong, establishing its first permanent gallery space in Asia. With the city serving as its regional base, Hauser & Wirth is embarking on a significant expansion plan by relocating to a prominent street-level space in the heart of Central. This expansion represents a milestone in Hauser & Wirth’s growth strategy, further reinforcing its position as a leading gallery in the global contemporary art landscape, while also contributing to the cultural fabric of this dynamic city.

Hong Kong as a Leading Art Hub

Hong Kong shines as a global art hub, propelled by its vibrant art ecosystem and strong support for creativity and cultural exchange. According to Elaine Kwok, Managing Partner, Asia of Hauser & Wirth, what sets Hong Kong apart is its unique blend of cultural influences, strategic location, and commitment to fostering artistic expression. “The city’s art scene is a captivating fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics, creating a melting pot of artistic styles and perspectives. Artists from around the world are drawn to Hong Kong’s creative energy, finding inspiration in its cosmopolitan atmosphere and rich cultural heritage,” she said.

Hauser & Wirth opened its gallery in Hong Kong in 2018, citing the city’s status as a global financial centre and a free port as one of the key factors. “In recent times, Hong Kong’s art market has experienced unprecedented growth,” Kwok stated. “There are no import and export taxes on artworks here, making it an attractive destination for collectors and galleries alike. This tax-free policy has nurtured a robust art economy, contributing to the growth of Hauser & Wirth.”

Kwok also highlighted that the city boasts a wide array of world-class exhibitions, art fairs, and cultural festivals that showcase diverse artistic disciplines and mediums. “Events such as Art Basel Hong Kong have gained international recognition, attracting art lovers from around the globe,” she said. “These renowned events provide valuable platforms for both established and emerging artists to showcase their work on an international stage.”

Fueling Artistic Connections

With its rich history and forward-thinking approach, Hauser & Wirth’s expansion in Hong Kong represents a bold step towards embracing new possibilities and reaching a broader audience. “The new 10,000 square feet space will open in late January 2024. With a street-level presence, the gallery will serve as a vibrant and immersive environment, providing enhanced accessibility and engagement opportunities for art enthusiasts. We aim to bring our exhibitions and diverse programmes closer to the public, fostering engagement and dialogue within the community,” Kwok enthused.

“Our commitment to artists goes beyond exhibition opportunities. We actively engage in artist representation, offering professional guidance, strategic career planning, and art legacy planning. By building long-term relationships with artists, we can facilitate their growth in their artistic journey,” she added.

With an inaugural exhibition showcasing the works of Chinese artist Zhang Enli and a series of compelling solo exhibitions planned throughout the year, Hauser & Wirth aims to enrich the local art scene and contribute to its ongoing development. The Zurich-headquartered gallery is poised to forge an even stronger presence in Hong Kong, propelling its regional growth to new heights.