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Art lovers and dealers had the opportunity to see works by some of Hong Kong's most prominent contemporary artists at the first-ever Hong Kong Pavilion at Masterpiece London 2013, one of the key events in the art and design world, which closed on July 3 (London time). The Hong Kong Pavilion was organised by Fine Art Asia, and was supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London.
Masterpiece London brings together collectors, exhibitors and curators from around the world to view collections of fine art, antiques and design from galleries across the globe. All the items on display are selected by committees of independent experts. Set in the South Grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the fair attracted nearly 34 000 visitors during eight days this year.
The Hong Kong Pavilion featured works by several of the most prominent Hong Kong artists from the last hundred years: Lui Shou-kwan, one of the founders of the New Ink Painting movement in Hong Kong; Fang Zhaoling, a pioneer woman artist of the 20th century; architect and designer Lo Chi-wing, who also designed the Hong Kong Pavilion; and Man Fung-yi, who weaves stainless steel and brass wire into graceful sculptures. There were also works by three key Mainland Chinese artists: Chen Guangwu, Lin Guocheng, and Liu Guofu. Finally there were examples of Chinese antique furniture. These artworks were provided by four important Hong Kong art galleries.
Director-General of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London, Ms Erica Ng, said, "It is indeed a significant recognition of Hong Kong's growing position of importance in the art world that we are here in this Hong Kong Pavilion with works by some of the most prominent Hong Kong artists from recent years. Since 1997, Hong Kong has retained its unique strengths and enjoys a high degree of autonomy, including freedom of speech and freedom of expression. This has enabled Hong Kong to encourage and nurture its artists and designers.
"But it is not just our artists that make Hong Kong a key player in the art world. Our city has become the world's third largest art market by auction sales, behind only New York and London, and is the largest art market in Asia. Many international art galleries have set up in Hong Kong to capitalise on the fast-growing Asian and Chinese markets."
More information on the Hong Kong Pavilion and on Masterpiece London 2013 can be found at the following website (www.masterpiecefair.com).
Ends/Friday, July 5, 2013
Issued at HKT 02:18
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