Beatrice Taevernier about Art Basel Hong Kong 2025

Beatrice Taevernier is the VIP representative of Art Basel for the Benelux and Romania. In this role, she is the main point of contact for collectors in these regions, and serves as an ambassador for the fair. Beyond that, Beatrice founded B-Arty, an art advisory company that offers bespoke services to individuals looking to either take their first steps into contemporary art or deepen and refine their collections. Additionally, she advises companies on how to integrate art into their workplaces—helping them strengthen their identity and communicate their values. She is specialized in contemporary art from the 1960s till now.

Do you collect art yourself? If so, what kind of pieces or artists do you find yourself drawn to?

Yes, absolutely. While I consider myself, first and foremost, an art passionate, I do have a personal collection. The focus of my small personal collection is on minimal art, particularly American Minimalism, and female artists with a feminist touch in their oeuvre.

When you walk through the fairs—what kind of work stops you in your tracks?

A great painting will always grab my attention. Although it is also important that a work sparks up debate about societal issues. Textiles and ceramics, often have that balance of craft and concept, which is why they hold such appeal to me. The beauty you can find in an artwork is my escape from the often harsh realities of life.

Do you have a favorite museum or gallery that you return to often for inspiration?

There are a few places that I return to from time to time. The Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam always has great exhibitions, especially in their modern section. Mondriaan, a Dutch painter that played a big role in the Stijl, a predecessor of minimalism, fascinates me in particular. I’m also often returning to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Brussels with its amazing Rubens and Breughel galleries. Additionally, foundation Beyeler in Switzerland and Voorlinden in Wassenaar are my two favorite private foundations.

In Hong Kong, M+ is a must visit, also because of it powerful architectural presence. Tai Kwun, with its edgy art program and energizing atmosphere is also high on my list.

Do you have a favorite piece of art-related advice you’ve ever received—or given?

The best advice would be: Buy with your eyes, not with your ears. I also encourage collectors to visit top fairs and to cultivate close relationships with established galleries (including the once exhibiting at Art Basel).

Art Basel Hong Kong has become a major hub for contemporary art in Asia. What’s unique about the 2025 edition?

Art Basel Hong Kong’s curated section dedicated to large-scale projects, called Encounters, will feature 18 exceptional installations, of which more than half of the works are created specifically for the fair. These works explore themes ranging from digital art and design to architecture, nature, and human interactions with a notable emphasis on textiles.

Kabinett, the section dedicated to thematic presentations within participating galleries’ booths, will feature 36 projects – the highest number in the fair’s history. There is a strong focus on historical and contemporary solo presentations from Asia, presenting works by 21 Asia-Pacific artists and 15 from the rest of the world.

How does the energy and atmosphere of Art Basel Hong Kong differ from Basel and Miami? What makes it stand out?

Each fair has it's own distinct identity. What always strikes me about Art Basel Hong Kong is the amount of very young collectors that are visiting the fair, as well as a huge attendance of children. It’s also the fair where you see the most selfies being taken with artworks!

Are there any specific themes or trends emerging at Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 that collectors should be aware of?

There is a strong focus on artists from the Asia Pacific region. Visitors should pay special attention to the KabinettSector, where many galleries are presenting art work from Asian artists, offering a deeper look into an individual artist’s career, a specific theme, or a period in art history from 1900 to the present. This year’s Insights sector features a strong focus on photography.

How is Asia’s art market evolving? And how is Art Basel Hong Kong adapting to meet the needs of a new generation of collectors?

There is a surge of interest in digital art amongst young Asian collectors. In response, a digital day is organized on the 28th of March with speakers all over the world. Moreover, the MGM Discoveries Art Prize, a newly established award for the 2025 edition of Art Basel Hong Kong, aims at supporting emerging artists and fostering new talent.

Are there any must-see exhibitions or cultural events happening in Hong Kong this year that complement Art Basel?

Definitely. The Alicia Kwade exhibition "Pretopia " at Tai Kwun is a highlight and at Pacific Place Park Court, there’s an offsite Encounters project by Zurich-based artist Monster Chetwynd. It’s a fascinating combination of sculpture and performance, drawing inspiration from cinematic choreography and themes of metamorphosis.

What do you think the future holds for Art Basel Hong Kong? Do you see it becoming even more central to the global art scene?

In my opinion, Art Basel Hong Kong is the most important contemporary art fair in Asia. It perfectly complements our 3 other fairs around the world and ensures Art Basel’s global presence and influence.

If you would describe Art Basel Hong Kong 2025 in three words, what would they be?

Asia-Pacific oriented, huge energy, high public attendance!