HK · International contemporary art platformIndependent 20th Century will take place from 24 to 27 September 2026 at the Breuer building, now operated by Sotheby’s. This edition is notable for its significant expansion, being 75% larger than previous years. The fair will feature approximately 57 exhibitors and more than 130 artists, reflecting its increased scale.
One of the highlights is the presentation by Lévy Gorvy Dayan, which will showcase works by Yves Klein from the early 1960s. These include a Blue Rain installation and several of Klein’s Cosmogonies paintings, which are distinguished by their use of natural forces such as rain and wind in the creative process.
The fair also emphasizes the artistic relationship between Klein and Lucio Fontana. Both artists explored connections to light and nature, and their friendship was marked by a shared fascination with physical space and a desire to push the boundaries of traditional painting.
The origins of Independent 20th Century trace back to a modest beginning, when the organizers hired Cecilia Alemani, a curator who had just completed her master’s degree at Bard College. With limited resources but a large exhibition space of 40,000 square feet, the fair’s early days combined ambition with resourcefulness.
Over nearly two decades, this approach has helped the fair grow and ultimately reach its current prominent position at the Breuer building. The event now offers collectors and art enthusiasts an opportunity to engage with significant modern artworks in a dynamic setting, highlighting the ongoing relevance of 20th-century art.
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