Fine Art Asia 2024
Revitalising Art Market Shines with New Collective Concepts
Hong Kong, 18 October 2024 – The 19th edition of Fine Art Asia was successfully staged from 3 – 7 October at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair once again brought together renowned antique and art galleries, and attracted many prominent and knowledgeable dealers, collectors and connoisseurs.
The Private Preview and Vernissage on 3 October was a resounding success, attracting over 5,000 VIP guests. The fair recorded a 30% increase in the number of visitors, with more than 22,000 visitors attended the fair over the five days, showcasing a continually revitalising art market in Hong Kong.
Sales at Fine Art Asia 2024
A Vajrapani with Vajrapurusha
Nepal
Licchavi Dynasty, 7th/8th century
Copper alloy with remains of gilding
H. 12.6 cm
Sold at Fine Art Asia 2024 by
Carlton Rochell Asian Art, New York
Patak Philippe
18ct white gold reference 3625 wristwatch with pavé diamond set chapter ring dial with onyx set centre featuring 18ct white gold
Dauphine hands and Baguette diamond set bezel with integrated bracelet
1983
Sold at Fine Art Asia 2024 by
Somlo London
A massive Lingbi scholar’s rock
Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
L. 63.5 cm
Sold at Fine Art Asia 2024 by
Maria Kiang Chinese Art, Hong Kong
In the Antique section, Rossi & Rossi and Carlton Rochell Asian Art presented a joint exhibition of the masterpieces from the Himalayas, and were pleased with the sales including an important Vajrapani with Vajrapurusha copper statue from the Licchavi Dynasty (7/8th century) in Nepal. Maria Kiang Chinese Art, specialising in exquisite scholar’s objects, successfully sold a massive Lingbi scholar’s rock from the Ming Dynasty, which was featured in the fair catalogue. Luohan Tang showcased sophisticated lacquer furniture and objects, achieving pleasant sales throughout the fair. Most of the exhibits were in high demand, and the gallery reported a notable increase in enquiries compared to last year. Wui Po Kok Antique Co. Ltd. presented a special exhibition titled “Ten Thousand Colours of the Ancient Bloom” and reported strong demand from veteran antique collectors from Hong Kong and mainland China, many of whom were eager to discuss potential purchases. The gallery featured antique works alongside collaborations with contemporary artists, and they were pleased to see that presenting these pieces in both traditional and innovative ways boosted sales.
Sue Ollemans, specialising in antique Asian jewellery and Chinese jades; and Esmé Parish Silver, specialising in antique Chinese and English sterling silver, commented that the fair attracted quality traffic this year and received positive feedback. However, they noted that it will still take time to adjust the new market trends after the rapid changes of recent years. Meanwhile, antique and vintage timepieces export Somlo London also reported rewarding sales, 2 significant sold pieces including a Frères Rochat 18ct yellow gold singing bird box set and an 18ct white gold Patek Philippe, reference 3625 wristwatch.
Lalan (1921 – 1995)
Untitled
1980
Mixed media on paper
H.170 x W.93 cm
Sold at Fine Art Asia 2024 by
Kwai Fung Hin Art Gallery, Hong Kong
Yao Bangliang (b.1985)
Image Series (Left and Right)
China; Left: 2023, Right: 2024
Natural lacquer, tile ash, egg crate
H. 30 x W.30 cm (both)
—
This Phase (Middle)
China, 2019
Natural lacquer, tile ash, linen
H. 48 x W. 35 cm
Sold at Fine Art Asia 2024 by
The Gallery by SOIL, Hong Kong
Fu Xiaotong (b.1976)
145,080 Pinpricks
2023
Pinpricks on handmade rice paper
H.78 x W.100 cm
Sold at Fine Art Asia 2024 by
Alisan Fine Arts, Hong Kong/New York
The Art section performed well throughout the fair. Kwai Fung Hin Art Gallery said that Fine Art Asia 2024 provided an intimate space to engage with art enthusiasts and discerning collectors from Hong Kong, mainland China, and abroad. One of the important pieces sold was “Untitled” by the renowned French-Chinese artist Lalan. Alisan Fine Arts successfully sold several pieces by Chinese artist Fu Xiaotong, including the highlight work titled “145,080 Pinpricks”. Chelesa Art Co. Ltd had robust sales for all the Chinese ink paintings by exhibited artists. Among the notable sold pieces was a series of 4 calligraphy works by Chinese Buddhist monk Yue Zheng.
Yumekoubou, featuring Japanese works of art, showcased two impressive bamboo installations by acclaimed artist Tanabe Chikuunsai IV. These remarkable pieces were the highlights of the fair, captivating most visitors’ attention throughout the show days. The gallery also reported rewarding sales, including several tree sculptures by artist Naoki Onogawa.
From left to right:
– Mr Warren Cheng, Co-Chairman of Fine Art Asia
– Mr Andy Hei, Founder and Co-Chairman of Fine Art Asia
– Mr Chan Kwok Ki Eric, GBS, IDSM, JP, Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR
– Mr Tanabe Chikuunsai IV, Japanese bamboo artist
The Gallery by SOIL showcased a series of contemporary lacquer paintings for the first time at the fair, enjoying a successful private preview and a busy opening day filled with strong interest from guests and visitors. The gallery received a wealth of positive feedback, particularly for the works of Chinese artist Yao Bangliang, which were especially sought-after. Among the sold pieces were the artist’s “Image Series” and “This Phase”. Pine’s Art reported unexpectedly strong sales, stating that the results were comparable to the pre-COVID period in 2018. The gallery successfully sold its highlight piece by Chinese calligrapher Chang Ch’ung-ho, along with all works by calligrapher and literati Tung Chiao.
Exhibiting for the first time at Fine Art Asia, both Young Soy Gallery and AEfolio enjoyed a successful experience at the fair. Young Soy Gallery reported that their catalog pieces garnered significant interest, resulting in new connections with potential clients over the five-day fair. Meanwhile, AEfolio noted that many of their glass pieces attracted a considerable number of visitors, primarily prospective clients, calling for extensive follow-up sales after the fair. The gallery expressed satisfaction and recognised the event as a valuable platform for promoting glass art to a wider audience.
This year marked the inaugural “Collectible Design – Asia Edition Pavilion” showcasing an impressive array of design collectibles from Hong Kong and various Asian regions, which garnered a positive reception. The featured designer pieces were highly regarded, with notable sales including the “Butterfly Chairs” by Chinese designer Zhu Xiaojie and the “Cloud of Happiness” ceiling lamps by Thai designer Korakot Aromdee. The pavilion established itself as a platform for presenting the finest design collectibles from across Asia, introducing a fresh concept for both emerging and seasoned collectors. Ms Grace Lau, the Curatorial Director, remarked, “The inaugural edition of the “Collectible Design – Asia Edition Pavilion” was very well received, attracting over 700 guests on the Private Preview day and more than 5,200 visitors throughout the fair. Regular patrons of Fine Art Asia discovered a whole new world of intriguing collectibles, which enhanced their overall experience at the event. Representatives, participating designers, and artisans welcomed the inclusion of collectible design in this annual fine art event. Design masters such as Mr Stanley Wong and Mr Dennis Chan have expressed their commitment to participating next year, recognising the platform’s potential and the positive responses from visitors. Meanwhile, emerging talents in the industry are already brainstorming new ideas for the upcoming edition, eager to explore collaborative opportunities with various artisans in this new arena for collectible concepts. The pavilion showcased over 100 items from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and Asia, featuring around 30 designers and artisans. The variety of collectible items ranged from accessories to homeware to furniture.”
From left to right:
– Mrs Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, GBM, GBS, JP, Former Chief Executive of the HKSAR
– Mr Warren Cheng, Co-Chairman of Fine Art Asia
– Mr Andy Hei, Founder and Co-Chairman of Fine Art Asia
– Mrs Grace Lau, Curatorial Director of “Collectible Design – Asia Edition Pavilion”
Special Exhibition
Fine Art Asia 2024 continued to endorse the core value of cross-collecting by showcasing innovative concepts that highlight the convergence of classic and contemporary art. The special exhibition “Timeless Echoes” attracted many visitors, inviting them to explore the unique narratives within the exhibits that intertwined elements from different eras. Warren Cheng, Co-Chairman of Fine Art Asia and curator of the exhibition, commented, “We are delighted to curate a series of special exhibitions and public art displays aimed at fostering the vibrancy and diversity of our cultures. Among these, the special exhibition ‘Timeless Echoes’ has been particularly popular, showcasing masterpieces from ancient to modern times. We made a bold choice to infuse traditional heritage with contemporary art and elements, hoping to challenge the conventional perception that antiques are old-fashioned. We look forward to presenting an even more unique and diverse cultural experience at our future fairs.”
Academic Programme
As a proponent for strengthening academic discussion and interaction among scholars, galleries, and collectors, we were delighted to organise a series of lectures and seminars featuring art experts from Hong Kong and abroad. A total of 11 lectures were held during the 5-day fair. The lecture titled “Hong Kong Ink Art in Perspective,” hosted by Mr Wong Shun Kit, curator and artist; Dr Lai Mei Lin, independent art history scholar; Mr Freeman Lau, BBS, designer; Mr Felix Kwok, Director and Head of
Modern Art at Sotheby’s Asia; and Mr Victor Wong, cross-media artist, particularly attracted a full-house audience. Other seminars were also well-attended, receiving enthusiastic feedback from visitors.
Fair Sponsor and Partner
We are pleased to have received generous support from LG Electronics for three consecutive years. Their excellent quality OLED TVs and display screens are featured throughout the fair area, including various special exhibitions and public art displays, providing an exceptional visual experience for the audience. We also extend our gratitude to AKI Hong Kong – MGallery under the prestigious hospitality group Accor, for providing minimalist yet comfortable accommodation to our valued guests.
Summing up, Andy Hei, Founder and Co-Chairman of Fine Art Asia, said,
“Fine Art Asia 2024 has successfully concluded, receiving enthusiastic feedback from both galleries and attendees. While we continue to stabilise our existing exhibit categories, we are committed to introducing innovative elements each year. This year’s event highlights a recovering market, and we are excited to see a growing public interest in cross-collecting. Our new curatorial area focused on collectible design has been particularly well-received. As we approach our 20th anniversary next year, we remain dedicated to presenting a diverse range of collections that showcase fine art and antiques spanning 5000 years of history and culture. Additionally, we recognise the importance of nurturing the next generation of collectors, ensuring that the appreciation of art continues to flourish.”
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