Several days into Art Basel week, this year’s edition is beginning to reveal its character. Across previews and private gatherings throughout Basel, the mood has felt noticeably more assured, offering a marked contrast to the caution that has characterised much of the art market in recent seasons.
Yayoi Kusama, presented by David Zwirner in Unlimited at Art Basel 2026. Courtesy of Art Basel
This year’s fair brings together 290 galleries from 43 countries and territories, reaffirming Basel’s position as the art world’s most influential annual gathering. The Middle East and North Africa are also strongly represented, with galleries including Sfeir-Semler, Selma Feriani and Athr Gallery participating alongside artists from the region appearing throughout the fair.
Nidhal Chamekh, Frictions #2 , 2025. Courtesy of Selma Feriani Gallery and the Artist
Among the highlights are the ambitious large-scale installations presented within Unlimited, curated for the first time by Ruba Katrib, alongside Parcours, curated by Stefanie Hessler, which brings contemporary art into public and historic spaces across the city. The newly launched Art Basel Zero 10 further reflects growing interest in digital and technology-driven artistic practices.
John Gerrard presented by Fellowship at Zero10, Art Basel 2026 Photo: Yuki Kos
Basel’s museums have also played a prominent role in shaping the week. Major exhibitions by Helen Frankenthaler, Cao Fei at Kunstmuseum Basel and Pierre Huyghe at Fondation Beyeler, have reinforced the city’s role as more than a backdrop to the fair.
Helen Frankenthaler, Moveable Blue, on view at Kunstmuseum Basel. © 2026 Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, Inc. / ProLitteris, Zurich
Sales have provided further evidence of confidence. Early reported sales included Hauser & Wirth’s USD 35 million Picasso, alongside major works by Gerhard Richter, David Hockney and Helen Frankenthaler. Activity also extended beyond blue-chip painting, with significant sales reported across Unlimited and Zero 10.
If recent seasons have been marked by restraint, Art Basel 2026 feels more open and outward-looking.
