Southern China’s Greater Bay Area witnessed an art extravaganza in early December, as Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Shunde hosted simultaneous art fairs and exhibitions, marking an unofficial art week of unprecedented scale for the region. The events showcased the vibrant contemporary art scene and demonstrated the region’s potential as a cultural hub.
In Shenzhen, Art Shenzhen celebrated its 11th edition from December 5 to 8 with a record-breaking 86 exhibitors, including renowned galleries like ShanghART Gallery and Beijing Commune. The government-sponsored fair solidified its role as the city’s art market cornerstone, replacing the discontinued DnA Art and Design Fair.
Guangzhou hosted two prominent fairs. The Moordn Art Fair expanded its exhibitor list to over 50, attracting galleries with Hong Kong bases, and collaborated with Guangzhou Design Week to target younger, design-savvy audiences. Meanwhile, Guangzhou Contemporary adopted a boutique approach, focusing on personalized connections between collectors and dealers.
Shenzhen’s Longgang district launched the 100+ Art Fair as part of the inaugural 100+ Asian Art Season. Supported by local authorities, the fair sought to transform Longgang from a center of replica production to a hub of original art. Held at the Buji Cultural and Sports Centre near Dafen village, the event featured fine art, design, sound art, and performance, drawing artisans from across Asia and engaging visitors through interactive booths.
Shunde stood out with its integration of historic and contemporary art. The He Art Museum showcased the largest exhibition of Mexican artist Bosco Sodi’s work in Asia and collaborated with the local government to revitalize historic properties as art spaces. Hao Space, a Qing dynasty residence, hosted artist Xie Zongxiu, who explored motherhood and local traditions through wearable art installations, captivating audiences during the Daliang Fish Lantern Festival.
While the overlapping fairs demonstrated the region’s cultural growth, art experts agree there is work to be done in cultivating a mature collector base. A recent survey revealed that while the region’s auction market accounted for only 5% of Greater China’s total, it experienced a 172% year-on-year growth in 2023. With a younger demographic of buyers, the Greater Bay Area’s art market is poised for a promising future.
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