Art Basel Hong Kong (ABHK) has announced a new section called Echoes, debuting at its 2026 edition (March 25–29), dedicated to works made within the past five years. The inaugural Echoes will feature 10 booths by 13 galleries, including Flowers Gallery (Hong Kong/London) and a joint booth by Capsule Shanghai and Klemm’s (Berlin). The fair also revealed its full curatorial team—all Asia-based for the first time—with Mami Kataoka heading the Encounters section, Ellen Pau curating the film programme, and Venus Lau organizing one day of the Conversations series. Additionally, the fifth annual M+ façade commission will be by Shahzia Sikander, presenting a hand-painted animation titled "3 to 12 Nautical Miles."
This announcement matters because it signals Art Basel's deepening commitment to Asia, particularly Hong Kong, amid a shifting global art market. The all-Asia curatorial team and the new Echoes section emphasize support for recent artistic production and regional perspectives, potentially strengthening Hong Kong's position as a leading art hub. The appointment of artist Ellen Pau as film curator also marks a first for the fair, highlighting a growing focus on moving image and media art.