Art enthusiasts, rejoice! The exalted Art Basel is expanding its brand and heading to Asia. Art Basel’s organizing company, MCH Swiss Exhibition Basel Ltd., has teamed up with Asian Art Fairs Ltd., owners of the renowned Hong Kong International Art Fair (also known as ART HK). MCH Group’s first step after purchasing the majority share in Asian Art Fairs Ltd. is to convert ART HK to the Art Basel brand, adding a third platform to accompany the prestigious Art Basel in Switzerland and Art Basel Miami Beach.

In three short years, ART HK has become known as the premiere art show in all of Asia. Its 2011 show, taking place from May 26 to 29, will present 260 prominent galleries from 38 countries. Art Basel and Art Basel Miami Beach, treasured favorites of proud Miamians, are recognized as the most important art shows in the world featuring installations, photographs, paintings, sculptures, and more, and are frequented by the most internationally renowned curators, gallery owners, collectors, patrons, and artists.

The power and influence attained by combining the knowledge and skills of ART HK and Art Basel is sure to be nothing short of astounding. Though ART HK will retain its name for the 2011 show, and Magnus Renfrew will continue to be ART HK’s director, other aspects, including future branding and other details of the show, are subject to change. An exciting future is certainly in store for ART HK and its new sister shows.

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