Rumours were swirling, but the official announcement came on Saturday, 6 June that the 50th edition of Art Basel, postponed from June to September, was no longer going forward this year.
"While there are signs of hope as individual countries are coming out of lockdown, the global situation remains precarious, and, unfortunately, too many uncertainties remain to go ahead with the fair," said Art Basel in a statement. "These include the health risks posed by large gatherings, the limitations on intercontinental travel, and the unclear Swiss regulatory environment for shows of Art Basel's size."
This is the second Art Basel fair to fall victim to a coronavirus-related cancellation this year. In early February, the decision was made to cancel the seventh edition of Art Basel Hong Kong, planned for March.
"It is sad news but at the same time totally expected," said Pontus Silfverstolpe, co-founder of Barnebys. "Art Basel is the world's leading exhibition for contemporary art. It's hard to imagine that the fair would risk their position and reputation by opening the doors. In addition, the fair is a melting pot for art buyers from all over the world. With limited opportunities and willingness to travel, I think it was the correct decision."
See also: Rare £16 Million Rembrandt Self-portrait at Auction
Art Basel will take place next year from 17-20 June 2021 in Basel, Switzerland. In the meantime, this year artwork can be viewed online through Art Basel's Viewing Rooms from 19-25 June. The fair's US edition, Art Basel Miami Beach, is still on schedule for 3-6 December 2020.
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