Art Basel has officially confirmed the return of 104 galleries from across the world that will participate in the 2021 edition of the Hong Kong event.

Art Basel Hong Kong will for this year, deliver a hybrid format that brings together Basel’s digital and physical platforms for the 2021 edition, with only 56 galleries having committed to in-person booths at the fair, due to COVID-19 restrictions. Additionally, other galleries, such as Hong Kong-based Rossi & Rossi and Manila-based Silverlens have come together for collective booths, while eight leading Italian galleries have joined forces to showcase at a single booth.

Due to travel restrictions, many international art collectors are unable to engage with the galleries in person. Art Basel has launched Art Basel Live: Hong Kong as a new digital initiative that will feature special online viewing rooms and programmes such as virtual walkthroughs and a live broadcast of the fair.

Art Basel’s Asia Director, Adeline Ooi said, “It has been truly inspiring to witness the ways in which the art world has been adapting to the current circumstances. We are deeply grateful to our participating galleries for their commitment to our show here in Hong Kong this year. Once again, Hong Kong’s institutions and non-profits have offered their full support by putting together a range of programs and events alongside Art Basel Hong Kong. We are delighted that we are able to introduce new models that support our galleries, from the satellite booths to the expansion of our digital offerings as a way to amplify the international reach of our galleries with ‘Art Basel Live: Hong Kong’.”

Art Basel Hong Kong is set to run between May 19 to 23, 2021 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.