Major Contemporary Art Center Planned in Manila

A rundown of the latest developments in Asia's art world, including fairs, new galleries, and artist news.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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This news roundup covers the latest happenings in Asia's art scene, including the inaugural Art Basel fair in Qatar, the 17th India Art Fair in New Delhi, new art fairs in Indonesia and the Philippines, the upcoming Pavilion Hong Kong alternative fair, and plans for a major new contemporary art center in Manila, Philippines.

Why it matters

The art world in Asia continues to evolve rapidly, with new fairs, galleries, and institutions emerging across the region. This roundup provides insights into the latest trends, sales, and developments that are shaping the Asian art market and showcasing the diverse artistic talent in the region.

The details

The inaugural Art Basel fair in Qatar featured single-artist presentations rather than traditional booths, with a focus on artists from the MENASA region. The 17th India Art Fair in New Delhi saw strong sales, with galleries like Vadehra Art Gallery and Rajiv Menon Contemporary reporting brisk business. New art fairs also debuted in Indonesia and the Philippines. Pavilion Hong Kong, a new alternative fair, will launch in March 2026 during Art Basel Hong Kong. The Ayala Foundation in the Philippines announced plans to open a new contemporary art center called Kontempo in Metro Manila, with Reuben Keehan named as the first artistic director.

  • The Art Basel fair in Qatar closed on February 7, 2026.
  • The 17th India Art Fair in New Delhi wrapped up on February 8, 2026.
  • Art Jakarta Papers and Art Fair Philippines both took place from February 6-8, 2026.
  • Pavilion Hong Kong will stage its inaugural edition from March 23-28, 2026.
  • Tokyo Gendai will return for its fourth edition from September 11-13, 2026, with a preview on September 10.

The players

Art Basel

A leading international art fair that is expanding its presence in Asia with new editions in Qatar and Hong Kong.

India Art Fair

An annual art fair in New Delhi that showcases the vibrant contemporary art scene in India.

Ayala Foundation

A non-profit organization in the Philippines that is creating a new contemporary art center called Kontempo in Metro Manila.

Reuben Keehan

The first artistic director of the Kontempo contemporary art center being developed by the Ayala Foundation in the Philippines.

Pavilion Hong Kong

A new alternative art fair launching in March 2026 during the week of Art Basel Hong Kong.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The rapid growth and evolution of the art scene across Asia, with new fairs, galleries, and institutions emerging, highlights the region's increasing importance and influence in the global art world.