[Interview] Fostering Creativity: How Samsung Helps Advance the Vision of Collaboration at Art Basel Hong Kong

“Technology has transformed the way people engage with art, making it more accessible through platforms like Samsung Art Store.”

Angelle Siyang-Le, Director of Art Basel Hong Kong, is a seasoned art professional with a deep understanding of the Asian and global art markets. For over a decade, she has been instrumental in shaping and defining the fair’s vision by fostering connections with galleries, collectors, institutions and the broader arts ecosystem.

Since her appointment as director in 2022, Art Basel Hong Kong has continued to evolve and grow — reflecting the vibrant art scene in Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region at large. Her passion for building community has been a driving force throughout her career in the arts, aligning perfectly with Art Basel’s mission to bring people together through meaningful and inspiring art experiences.

Samsung Newsroom sat down with Siyang-Le to explore how Art Basel Hong Kong fosters creativity and collaboration through technology.

▲ Angelle Siyang-Le, Director of Art Basel Hong Kong (Image courtesy of Art Basel)

Vision and Future of Art Basel Hong Kong

Q: What is the vision behind Art Basel Hong Kong?

Art Basel is dedicated to connecting and nurturing the global art ecosystem. Art Basel Hong Kong places a strong emphasis on the Asia-Pacific region, with over 50% of participating galleries coming from this area. We actively support the local art scene through collaborations with various institutions and cultural organizations.

Each of our shows — in Hong Kong, Basel, Paris and Miami Beach — is uniquely shaped by its host city, an influence reflected in the gallery lineup, artwork and parallel programming developed in collaboration with local institutions.

Q: What role does Hong Kong play in the Asian art market?

Hong Kong serves as a pivotal gateway to the broader Asian art market. With its established auction houses, vibrant gallery scene and international collector base, the city remains a key hub for both Western and Asian art. As Asia’s leading art hub, Hong Kong continues to bridge art communities across the region and beyond.

Q: How has Art Basel Hong Kong evolved over the years?

Our fair has evolved alongside Hong Kong’s vibrant art scene, with both continuously inspiring and impacting each other. The city’s cultural landscape has expanded significantly during my time here — invigorated by a new generation of collectors, the opening of world-class institutions like M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum and a dynamic surge of commercial, non-profit and artist-run spaces. Internally, we have introduced numerous initiatives and programs as well. I am proud that Art Basel Hong Kong has become a cornerstone of the city’s arts community, with widespread recognition of the fair’s presence this month.

▲ Art Basel Hong Kong 2024 (Image courtesy of Art Basel)

Samsung x Art Basel: Redefining Art Appreciation

Q: As the official visual display partner for Art Basel, how is Samsung Electronics driving the integration of art into everyday life through Samsung Art Store?

The global collaboration between Art Basel and Samsung presents an exciting opportunity to merge world-class art exhibitions with cutting-edge innovations. Technology has transformed the way people engage with art, making it more accessible through platforms like Samsung Art Store. Advancements in display technology enable viewers to experience art in new and immersive ways — bringing it into their daily lives and fostering deeper connections.

▲ The Samsung Art Store is home to 3,000+ works from world-renowned museums, galleries and artists. Subscribers can explore expertly curated masterpieces in stunning 4K resolution. While previously exclusive to The Frame and MICRO LED, the Samsung Art Store will soon be available on 2025 Samsung AI-powered Neo QLED and QLED TVs.

Q: How do you see this partnership impacting the way people perceive and appreciate art?

Technology-driven initiatives have the power to expand cultural exchange and inspire audiences worldwide. With The Frame, Samsung has already built strong partnerships with leading museums, institutions and artists — bridging diverse artistic practices and mediums. I believe that growing these collaborations will be crucial to further integrating technology into the art world and redefining how people experience and appreciate art in their homes.

Q: What has your experience been like using The Frame in Art Mode?

I had the opportunity to explore The Frame during Samsung’s activation at our Basel and Miami Beach shows last year, and I was truly impressed by how artwork is presented on the screen. I encourage visitors to experience The Frame in Art Mode and observe how various artistic techniques and textures are rendered digitally. While The Frame offers a stunning way to enjoy classic masterpieces, what excites me most is how Samsung Art Store enhances the experience by showcasing emerging artists and fresh artistic perspectives.

▲ A comparison of The Frame Pro’s TV Mode and Art Mode

The Role of Technology in the Evolving Art World

Q: How is technology influencing the presentation and consumption of contemporary art?

Technology plays a crucial role in expanding the global reach of contemporary art and transforming how we experience and connect with it. Digital platforms have redefined accessibility, while AI and blockchain are revolutionizing how art is created, traded and authenticated. Last year at Art Basel Miami Beach, we introduced an AI-powered mobile app to make exploring the fair more intuitive and engaging. Our use of technology is all about enhancing the visitor experience — offering audiences fresh, innovative ways to discover new artwork, navigate the fair seamlessly and connect with galleries.

Q: What changes have you noticed in the art world?

Collector interests are shifting. There is a growing demand for emerging artists and increased recognition of local artists, whose presence in private collections is rising. Additionally, a generational shift is underway as younger collectors take on a more active role in shaping the market.

▲ “Enduring as the universe (天長地久, 2024)” by Ticko Liu displayed on The Frame Pro

Q: What opportunities excite you most about Art Basel Hong Kong’s future?

I’m excited to continue deepening collaborations within Hong Kong’s dynamic arts community and contributing to Asia’s art ecosystem. Strengthening regional and global connections not only enriches the fair but also fosters a broader dialogue around contemporary art. Through meaningful partnerships such as Art Basel’s collaboration with Samsung, we can continue to progress while staying true to our core mission — delivering world-class art fairs for our global community of galleries, artists, partners and collectors.

This year, Art Basel Hong Kong will take place from March 28 to 30 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Visitors are invited to explore premier galleries from around the world and discover diverse artistic perspectives through modern and contemporary artwork.