Hauser & Wirth postpones Annie Leibovitz show in Hong Kong amid protests

As Art Basel Miami Beach draws global art world attention, Hong Kong remains gripped by ongoing protests against the extradition bill that began in March. The political instability is now affecting the city's art scene. Hauser & Wirth, which opened its Hong Kong outpost in 2018, has indefinitely postponed a major retrospective of photographer Annie Leibovitz that was scheduled for late 2019. The show would have been one of the gallery's first major exhibitions of Leibovitz since she joined its roster in June 2019, following a Los Angeles show and a presence at Art Basel Switzerland. A gallery statement said discussions with the artist continue and they hope to present the exhibition in Hong Kong in the future. Meanwhile, Art Basel Hong Kong, set for March 19–21, 2020, remains on track. Director Adeline Ooi Kong emailed the 242 exhibitors reassuring them that the fair will proceed, citing support for the local art scene and collectors. To encourage participation, the fair is offering discounts on hotels and restaurants and cutting service fees.