London taking close look at Asian art during annual festival

The annual event Asian Art in London is celebrating its 20th anniversary with series of activities, exhibitions, auctions, and lectures aimed at promoting Asian creativity at venues throughout the British capital.

As part of the showcase that starts on Thursday, the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour will host the new exhibition East Meets West, which features contemporary and antique works as well as workshops and displays of interior designs influenced by Asia.

Claire German, managing director of the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, described it as "an international hub, known for its impeccable design credentials, luxury brands and world-class talent".

"As a center of international design expression, we're delighted to present such a multi-dimensional exhibition focusing on the culture and creativity of the Far East," she said.

The exhibition will include a colorful selection of innovative works by Chinese contemporary artists represented by the gallery ArtChina. They will include mixed media, modern ceramics, landscape paintings, and folding prints that merge tradition and modern, craft, and fine art. And Young Guns, a group that deals in antique art, has been "charged to show authentic Asian antiques in an entirely new way".

The Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour said there will also be immersive experiences, including talks, demonstrations, workshops, and discovery tours that will explore the crossover between art from the East and the West.

Other highlights of Asian Art in London include Aktis Gallery hosting an exhibition dedicated to the late Chinese artist Zao Wou-Ki and lectures and seminars that mark the festival's 20th anniversary.

This year's big event will be a panel discussion in association with Sotheby’s Institute of Art. Modern and Contemporary Asian Art: Can London be a Global Hub will explore the potential for the further development of modern and contemporary Asian art in the UK capital, with experts debating ways to increase the visibility and knowledge of such art in London.

Asian Art in London coincides with several major Asian art auctions. Around 10 auction houses, including giants Bonhams, Christie’s, and Sotheby's, will hold viewings or sales during November.

Asian Art in London starts on Thursday and continues until Nov 11.