What Do You Think of Asia's Biennials? We Want to Know | Artnet News
Artnet News
by Vivienne ChowFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article explores the growing significance of art biennials in Asia, highlighting their role as cultural and economic tools for cities and nations. From Singapore to Saudi Arabia and Taiwan, these events often aim to promote a host city's or country's global standing, drive urban regeneration, and boost local economies by attracting international visitors. Currently, at least eight biennials are taking place across Asia, with more scheduled in the coming months, such as the Biennale of Sydney and biennials in Gwangju, Busan, and Bangkok.
The article notes that while biennials originated in the West, they have evolved uniquely in Asia. Many are publicly funded initiatives, serving purposes beyond art exhibitions—such as celebrating national milestones or recalibrating a country’s position on the global art map. For example, Singapore’s current Biennale is part of celebrations marking the city-state’s 60th anniversary, focusing on its rise as an economic hub. Similarly, Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale aims to redefine its role in the global art scene.
The proliferation of biennials in Asia has sparked both opportunities and challenges. While they have increased curators’ interest in Asian artists and provided a platform for emerging scenes like Thailand’s, some collectors argue that these events could benefit from greater diversity in artist representation. Despite their growth, biennials are not yet overcrowded, but there is room for improvement in showcasing a broader range of artists.
The article also touches on the evolving global art market, where biennials offer a unique experience compared to traditional art fairs. Collectors and patrons see biennials as an opportunity to observe curatorial trends and the direction of the art ecosystem. However, the main art fairs remain crucial for networking and discovering new talent.
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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/26/2026