Art Basel is one of the world’s most important art fairs, where galleries gather to showcase the latest work from top artists. Since starting in Basel, Switzerland in 1970, it has expanded to Miami and Hong Kong. At Hong Kong this year, Filipino artists got to exhibit their works to important art dealers, collectors, and gallery owners.
At Silverlens’ booth, Manuel Ocampo, Gabriel Barredo, Wawi Navarroza, Norberto Roldan, Pow Martinez, Gregory Halili, and Chati Coronel presented their collection, featuring paintings of the fluidity of gender, the devil and the skeleton, a marble worker from Romblon, and more. Silverlens also showcased the works of foreign artists like Maria Taniguchi and Yee I-Lann.
The Philippine representation at Art Basel is important as it will put a spotlight on local talent in a booming industry. Asia accounts for 23 percent of global art sales and 15 percent of private dealer sales, with top customers coming from China, South Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
The global art market also enjoyed total sales of $63.7 billion in 2017, up from $56.6 billion in 2016.
Silverlens is one of the Philippines’ top galleries, exhibiting contemporary art and photography in its Makati space. It is founded by Isa Lorenzo and Rachel Rillo in 2004.