Art Basel Hong Kong 2023 is a standout event this spring, showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art from around the globe. Among the must-visit exhibitions are the following highlights:

How to Be Happy Together

**Para Site, 22/F, Wing Wah Industrial Building, 677 King’s Rd, Quarry Bay, until April 6** This exhibition is heavily influenced by the iconic works of Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-wai, particularly his 1997 film *Happy Together*, which explores the emotional turbulence of a gay couple navigating their relationship in Argentina. Curated by Zairong Xiang, the show features contributions from over 20 artists and collectives who interpret themes of love, identity, and belonging through Wong’s cinematic lens. Xiang emphasizes the metaphysical qualities of Wong’s work, describing it as “sensuous and porous,” capable of fostering dialogue even amidst societal conflicts. Notably, the exhibition highlights past and present connections between Hong Kong artists and their Latin American counterparts, enriching the conversation surrounding transregional artistic exchanges.

Louise Bourgeois: Soft Landscape

**Hauser & Wirth Hong Kong, G/F, 8 Queen’s Road Central, Central, until June 21** This exhibition dives into the complex psyche of Louise Bourgeois, tracing her evolution as an artist through a tumultuous period of personal struggles. The show features a range of her works including seldom-seen sculptures, intricate paper pieces, and a three-meter-long fountain installation titled *Mamelles*, where soothing water flows from a frieze of breasts, reflecting Bourgeois’s deep connection to themes of maternity and the feminine experience. Bourgeois’s innovative use of organic shapes and emotive forms offers viewers a chance to engage deeply with her exploration of identity, motherhood, and the subconscious.

Beauty Will Save the World

**10 Chancery Lane Gallery, 10 Chancery Lane, Central, until May 16** Curated by Iola Lenzi, this compelling exhibition challenges the notion of beauty in contemporary art, positioning it as a form of resilience amid societal turmoil. The show gathers eight formidable artists from Southeast Asia whose works confront harsh realities such as conflict, migration, and societal upheaval, yet do so through a lens of aesthetic appeal. Artists such as Dinh Q. Lê and Chan Dany use visual narratives to engage with their audience on a deeper level, offering a means to transcend the trauma of their respective histories. This exhibition serves as a potent reminder of art’s ability to provide solace and provoke thought in turbulent times.

Exploring Institutional Collaborations

Notably, Art Basel Hong Kong this year also emphasizes collaboration among institutions, highlighting the international nature of contemporary art. Expect to see a variety of regional and global partnerships showcased throughout the fair, creating a rich tapestry of dialogues that resonates with the challenges and aspirations of the current art scene.

Art Basel Hong Kong 2023 is more than an exhibit; it’s a celebration of culture, resilience, and the unifying power of art. Don’t miss out on these transformative experiences that promise to inspire and engage!