Art Basel
Art Basel, established in 1970 by Basel gallerists Ernst Beyeler, Trudl Bruckner, and Balz Hilt, is a prestigious international art fair held annually in Basel, Switzerland. It has expanded to include shows in Miami Beach, Hong Kong, and Paris. Renowned for its collaboration with local institutions, Art Basel plays a pivotal role in developing art programs in host cities. Attracting over 16,000 visitors in its first year, the fair has grown significantly, reaching almost 300 exhibitors from 21 countries by 1975. Art Basel's distinct feature, Art Unlimited, introduced in 1999, showcases monumental artworks, including sculpture, installations, video art, and performances.
The festival is a melting pot for cultural exchange, bringing together galleries, private collectors, museum and institution representatives, artists, and art enthusiasts. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Art Basel continues to adapt and thrive, with its 2021 edition attracting 273 exhibitors. Art Basel's commitment to the art world extends beyond the fair, with initiatives like Art Basel Cities, BMW Art Journey, and crowdfunding projects supporting emerging artists and non-profit art programs globally.