The Swiss edition of Art Basel was once the premier event in the art world, but it now confronts significant challenges—especially from its own Paris offshoot.
While the rituals of Art Basel, the globe’s largest and most esteemed contemporary and modern art fair, remain steadfast, the flagship event in Switzerland is facing tough obstacles. This year, 289 galleries from 42 countries are participating, hoping to secure sales amid a sluggish art market and global turmoil. The V.I.P. preview opened on Tuesday, with public access starting Thursday and running through Sunday.
What was once an essential fixture now contends with increasing competition from Art Basel’s Paris edition in October, which boasts all the attractions of the French capital, particularly appealing to American visitors. Additionally, a new fair in Qatar, set to launch in February, was announced last month, alongside Art Basel’s established offshoots in Hong Kong and Miami Beach. This expansion allows international collectors to be more discerning about their travel choices.
