Art Central Returns with Cutting Edge Programme

Carnival and theatres have occupied Central Harbourfront for the past few months, but now the prime spot is about to get the biggest artistic makeover of the year, as the stylish and cutting-edge Art Central returns to the city this month. The much-anticipated event kicks off with First Night on March 21 where art-lovers, collectors, and VIPs are invited to sip on Champagne as they browse the architecturally designed gallery set against the magnificent backdrop of the city's iconic skyline. Following a VIP Preview on March 22, the fair will open up to the public from March 23 to 26, showcasing the next generation of talent alongside established names from across the globe. Over 100 exhibitors from 21 countries, including 30 up-and-coming names never before seen in Hong Kong. With an even more impressive programme of large-scale installations, engaging talks and performances, the not-to-be-missed event promises to lure more art lovers than ever before through its doors. We take a sneak peek at what's in store, and scroll down to see the exclusive offer for Localiiz readers.

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New Media

[caption id="attachment_48849" align="aligncenter" width="561"] Nonotak Studio, Daydream V.3, 2014, Audiovisual Installation.[/caption] Exciting additions to this year's fair include Media X Mumm, an exhibition of avant-garde digital, new media, and performance art supported by Official Champagne partner, G.H. Mumm. The new platform will house must-see artworks from regional artists including the stunning audiovisual installation, Daydream V.3, by Taipei based Nonotak Studio, which is sure to make a striking impression on this year's fair-goers. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="340"] Dwi Setiant, Growth, 2016, Mixed Media.[/caption] Meanwhile, the awe-inspiring mixed media mural, Growth, by Indonesian born Dwi Sentianto, will fill the room in its 12 meters of glory. Other regional highlights include a stellar selection of Dansaekhwa Korean monochromatic paintings and works by masters Park Seo Bo and Lee Ufan, presented by the Seoul based Gallery Hyundai, as well as contemporary Chinese art by Shang Yang, Liang Quan, and Wei Dong, brought to us by the Beijing based Hive Center for Contemporary Art. Film will also play a key role in this year's Art Central, with Screen x Experimenta providing a platform for experimental and narrative filmmakers to showcase their talent to the world. [caption id="attachment_49065" align="aligncenter" width="660"] Cold Turkey, Iceland, Thriller, 2013.[/caption] For an hour each day of the fair, visitors to the Auditorium can explore a collection of short films from across the world, including Bahrain, France, Iceland, Spain, Japan, Algeria, Australia, and Hong Kong. But beware, some of these masterpieces are not for the faint-hearted.

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Talks Program

[caption id="attachment_49113" align="aligncenter" width="600"] The Flying Buck: The Art of Production Abdullah M.I. Syed.[/caption] Discovery and education lie at the heart if this year's Art Central, with dynamic talk, tours, and roundtables on offer to visitors throughout the six day extravaganza. A particular highlight will be Roundtable X 4A, a series of discussions, interviews, presentations, and performances which will challenge audiences to think more deeply about contemporary art practice, and join the 4A team at their communal table for a compelling discussion.

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On-demand Champagne

It wouldn't be an art show without a glass of bubbly - or two. Making its debut at this year's Art Central is the first Media X Mumm Champagne Bar, which will offer two exclusive limited edition bottles of Cordon Rouge, the No.1 Silver and the reflective David Guetta bottle, for the first time in Hong Kong. The brand will also offer on-demand champagne, powered by text-based concierge service SpotHelp, whereby visitors can use Whatsapp to order bubbly, by the glass or bottle, to be delivered straight to their booth location. Now how's that for convenience?

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Art Fair Dining

We all know that shopping can make you hungry, so an outdoor Street Food area will be open to keep fair-goers happy as they browse the booths. Visitors can enjoy a beer and snack by the harbourside from eight of Hong Kong's dining favourites listed below. Alternatively, they can sit down for a meal at the neo-Parisian bistro pop-up, Belon, helmed by world-class chef James Henry. Beef & Liberty - Hong Kong's best burger restaurant Claw & Order - brand new to Hong Kong, lobster and crab concept TRi - Balinese restaurant from Repluse Bay XTC Gelato - famous Hong Kong ice cream, gelato, and sorbet shop Bread & Beast - new to Hong Kong, heavy and hearty filled baguettes, sandwiches Brickhouse - Mexican tacos, tortillas, and quesadillas. [su_note note_color="#eae9e8" radius="0"] Art Central Exclusive Ticket Offer – Over 50% Off Art Central is offering friends of Localiiz the opportunity to purchase general entry tickets from 23 to 26 March at over 50% off! Click here to find out more. [/su_note] Find out more about Art Central by visiting the website and Facebook page.

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