Art Fairs Adapt to Pandemic with Digital Shifts and Localized Schedules

Art fairs globally have shifted to digital and hybrid models during the pandemic, with Art Basel, Frieze, and others offering online viewing rooms. Iwan Wirth of Hauser & Wirth suggests hybrid formats may persist post-quarantine. Alexandre Roesler of Galeria Nara Roesler notes reduced expenses from virtual exhibitions helped maintain revenue. French collector François Blanc sees an opportunity for galleries to regain market control. Jonathan Schwartz of Atelier 4 observed increased direct collaboration with clients buying art for their homes. Frieze New York reduced exhibitors by two-thirds for its May 2021 edition at The Shed. Art Basel Hong Kong will proceed in-person from May 21 to 23, while Art Basel Switzerland postponed its 51st edition to September 23-26. TEFAF Maastricht moved to September 11-19. According to an Artsy survey, social media surpassed art fairs as a primary sales channel for galleries in 2020. A calendar lists fairs including Art Paris (April 8-11), Expo Chicago (April 8-11), and SP Arte (June 16-20).