Angelle Siyang-Le is the director of Art Basel Hong Kong. Ahead of the fair this month, she speaks to Tatler about pushing the limits, sharing a burger with a renowned artist and her dream of lighting up all the skyscrapers in Hong Kong
I have always loved art and literature, but it wasn’t until I received a scholarship for art and design during my A-Levels in high school in London that I began to think about art seriously. As a teenager, this scholarship not only validated my passion but also encouraged my parents to support me in pursuing a path in the arts. My mother said: “You must be able to find a job in this so-called “art world”’—and I did.
The different cultures I’ve experienced while living in many places [Siyang-Le lived in London, Vancouver and Dubai before moving to Hong Kong] over the years have really blurred lines for me—whether it’s geographical boundaries, gender roles or identities. I’ve seen these limits pushed and challenged, especially when working with artists who love to experiment without restrictions. I like to think of myself as a facilitator in the art world—adapting to the needs of our vibrant art ecosystem. [Living abroad] has opened my eyes to new ways of seeing art, helping me to expand and challenge my own perspective. I’m passionate about supporting art that allows us to transcend limitations and inspires us with fresh visions for the future.
If I wasn’t in the art world, I would be absolutely devastated. However, I did dream of being a writer when I was a child, which would have also allowed me to cultivate and share cultures. There have been countless moments that have filled me with joy, like sharing a burger side-by- side with artist Maurizio Cattelan or asking Jeff Koons a challenging question. However, my favourite moment is always witnessing the hour before each show’s opening. It’s a magical time when gallery owners gather with their teams at the booths and prepare for those golden first few hours of the fair. The anticipation in the air is palpable, and it’s a reminder of the passion and dedication that fuels the art world.
Angelle Siyang-Le in Tai Kwun (Photo: Zed Leets/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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Hong Kong’s art scene has evolved since I first entered the industry. Hong Kong boasts one of the most comprehensive art ecosystems in Asia, with a strong visual art community that continues to grow. Its homegrown galleries are also cultivating local talents like Samson Young, Trevor Yeung and Leelee Chan, who have made a significant impact on the global art stage. At this year’s Art Basel in Hong Kong, there will be 32 exhibitors showcasing their works, further highlighting the city’s vibrant art scene.
A common misconception about Art Basel that I’d like to debunk is that we just work one week of the year at the fair. If that were the case, I’d be the reigning champion of procrastination. Together with the team, I am more like a circus performer juggling flaming torches—between conceptualising, planning, strategising and sometimes trying to remember where I left my coffee—and my kids. The fair is just the grand finale of a year’s worth of behind-the-scenes chaos. The entire Art Basel show in Hong Kong is built within two and a half days, which is a very fast turnaround for an event at this scale.
One of my greatest mentors who first brought me into the art fair business and has continuously nurtured my growth said: “Be ambitious and be bold. Own it, love it—it is yours to shepherd but it belongs to everyone in Asia and beyond.” Art can be healing.
At Art Basel, we’re dedicated to supporting emerging artists, and I’m excited about the MGM Discoveries Art Prize at this year’s show. This prize is specifically aimed at nurturing new talent, and we’ll be awarding its first winner in 2025.
One thing I’ve noticed in recent years is how personal collecting has become. Collectors in our region, in particular, are increasingly focused on building collections that reflect strong themes and resonate with their own beliefs and experiences. This evolution not only enriches the art scene but also creates a deeper connection between art and its audience. I see an increased blend of physical and virtual experiences at art fairs, creating hybrid platforms that enhance visitor engagement and broaden the reach of the audience.
