(Photo: Unsplash / Markus Spiske)
Art enthusiasts from around the globe gathered at Messe Basel for the VIP opening of Art Basel 2024. Expectations of rain were dispelled by a sunny day that welcomed patrons with champagne and a vibrant atmosphere. As the fair officially opened at 11 a.m., attendees eagerly flocked to the 285 galleries from 40 countries and regions, including 22 newcomers, showcasing diverse artworks.
Pace Gallery - Booth A7
Pace Gallery dazzled with a star-studded lineup featuring a captivating piece by Jean Dubuffet, the Banc-Salon (1970/2024), flanked by hovering cerfs-volants (kites). This monumental display drew admiration and fetched €800,000 ($859,160) per unit, emphasizing Pace's prowess in the art world.
Barro - Booth M8
Barro from Buenos Aires was captivated by La Chola Poblete's poignant exploration of white supremacy and colonialism through watercolors imbued with religious and ancestral symbolism. The presentation in the Statements section highlighted Poblete's introspective themes and cultural identity.
Sies + Höke - Booth P18
A mechanical deer stole the spotlight at Düsseldorf's Sies + Höke booth. Its lifelike movements challenged perceptions of nature and monumentality. Artist Julius von Bismark's creation captivated viewers with its dynamic commentary on humanity's relationship with wildlife.
Wooson Gallery - Booth M3
Wooson Gallery from Korea mesmerized visitors with Omyo Cho's glass sea snails suspended within a mirrored environment. Priced at €20,000 ($21,610) each, Cho's sculptures explored futuristic themes of memory and evolution, resonating with science fiction narratives.
Esther Schipper - Booth R1
Esther Schipper's booth featured Ugo Rondinone's striking gold leaf works and other avant-garde installations, including Philippe Parreno's luminous marquee and Anicka Yi's ethereal sculpture. This showcase underscored Schipper's commitment to conceptual artistry and experimental narratives.
Also Read: Top 10 Installation Artists Who Are Shaping Modern Art Through Immersive Experiences
The Breeder - Booth R19
Athens-based The Breeder showcased a dynamic range of artists, prominently featuring Maria Hassabi's evocative photography, capturing themes of motion and emotion. The gallery's comprehensive survey reflected a vibrant fusion of contemporary expressions and cultural dialogues.
Goodman Gallery - Booth P11
Celebrating 40 years at Art Basel, South Africa's Goodman Gallery was impressed with monumental works by El Anatsui and Yinka Shonibare, alongside emerging talents like Kapwani Kiwanga and Carrie Mae Weems. This retrospective presentation highlighted the gallery's enduring impact and artistic diversity.
Bernard Jacobson Gallery - Booth G15
London's Bernard Jacobson Gallery paid homage to Georges Braque with a compelling display of the French artist's masterpieces spanning decades. The booth captivated with Braque's nuanced still lifes, showcasing his unparalleled skill in composition and form.
Garth Greenan Gallery - Booth E18
New York's Garth Greenan Gallery debuted strongly with a curated selection of Jaune Quick-to-See Smith's retrospective works and Emmi Whitehorse's vibrant paintings. The booth celebrated the gallery's artists, gaining international recognition.
OMR - Booth L16
Mexico City's OMR marked its 23rd appearance at Art Basel with a diverse showcase bridging Mexican and international art scenes. Featuring Alicja Kwade and Julian Charrière, among others, OMR's booth fostered a rich dialogue between cultures and artistic perspectives.
As Art Basel 2024 continues to unfold, these booths stand as beacons of creativity and innovation, each offering a unique glimpse into the evolving landscape of contemporary art. With themes ranging from social commentary to technological exploration, the fair reaffirms its status as a global hub for artistic expression and cultural exchange.
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