In shadow of Basel fair, Beijing show sprouts

"So introducing Western management practices will enhance the professionalism of local galleries and give greater diversity to the art presented at Art Beijing."

Art Beijing's success suggests that that approach is paying off, and Dong says his biggest wish now is to promote outstanding Chinese art works in the international market.

"You seldom see Chinese art galleries at Art Basel despite the increasing number of galleries in China in terms of their professionalism and the quality of what they sell.

"As China grows economically, Beijing is receiving greater attention worldwide, and I want Art Beijing to serve as a stage for the best Chinese art galleries to be seen by the world."

In addition to taking a lead from the Western business model, Dong believes localization is crucial.

"In the beginning we tried to be very Western by copying what I had seen in Europe, but now we're taking the opposite tack. I want to be more localized, to take account of public demand to showcase art that caters to Chinese tastes."

At this year's exhibition, Art Beijing is building on its "locally based and Asia-oriented" concept to work more closely with art galleries in China, as well as with galleries throughout the Asia-Pacific region, including the US and Europe.

With Art Beijing's popularity, the number of artistic institutions wishing to be invited grows year by year, and this year the executive committee received about 300, two-thirds of those being successful after a rigorous selection process.

liulu@chinadaily.com.cn