This year’s edition of Art Basel Hong Kong, one of the most important destinations in the international art market calendar, has been canceled, with organizers citing the ‘‘sudden and widespread outbreak’’ of the coronavirus in China. The fair, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center, and featuring premier galleries from Asia and beyond, was to preview on March 17 and run through March 21. “The decision to cancel Art Basel Hong Kong was an extremely difficult one for us,” said Bernd Stadlwieser, chief executive of MCH Group, the Swiss-based company behind the fair. “We explored every other possible option, including postponing the fair, and gathered advice and perspectives from many gallerists, partners, and external experts. Last week, as Hong Kong shut down museums and schools, and limited flights from the Chinese mainland, participating dealers called for the closure of the fair.

Source: International New York Times February 07, 2020 00:22 UTC