(22 May 2008, Hong Kong)

"Introduce Art and Antiques to the Public"
The 3rd Asia Int'l Arts & Antiques Fair officially opens
'Private Collection Pavilion' helps eliminate barriers between antiques and the public

Asia International Arts and Antiques Fair 2008 (AIAA 2008), organized by Paper Communication Exhibition Services (PCES), officially opened with a VIP ceremony at Asia-World Expo today. The opening ceremony of this four-day exhibition featured 15 officiating guests, including officials of the China Government, elite members of the arts and antiques community, and celebrities. This year, the organizer is promoting the theme “Introduce Arts and Antiques to the Public”, and is committed to encouraging a broader understanding and appreciation of antiques and folk art. As part of that commitment, the organizer has introduced a brand new element to this year’s show, namely the first private trade platform. This ‘Private Collection Pavilion’ is a spectacular showcase of precious artefacts and works of art from many private collectors. To further enrich the Fair, the organizer has also launched two additional exhibition zones, ‘The Chinese Calligraphy Pavilion’ and ‘The Chinese Classic Oil Painting Pavilion’. More than 100 exhibitors from different countries have joined this year’s exhibition, and the combined value of all exhibits is more than HK$60 million! Visitors to the Fair can also view magnificent antique ceramics from 11 well-known styles at the International Touring Exhibition of Chinese Ceramic Art Collectables.

The opening ceremony was conducted by the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr. Lu Xinhua, Ms. Chow Shan Shan, Deputy Director of General of Publicity of Cultural & Sports Department, Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR; Mr. Zhang Xin Jian, Deputy Director of China Ministry of Culture Marketing Center; Mr. Andy Chui, Chairman of Info Communication Holdings Limited; Mr. Eddie Leung, Managing Director of Paper Communication Exhibition Services; Dr. Alice Chiu, JP, Founding President of the Greater China Culture Global Association, and other guests.

“Building on our past experience, we have specially introduced several new elements this year,” explained Mr. Eddie Leung of PCES. “For example, the ‘Private Collection Pavilion’ gives private collectors an opportunity to showcase their precious artworks and antiques. The event further benefits from a vetting committee, which is responsible for verifying the authenticity of all exhibits. A forum will also be conducted to give the public an opportunity to interact with the industry. Throughout the event, all exhibits will be showcased openly, enabling the public to better appreciate these magnificent antiques and folk arts. All this is in line with our main theme, “Introduce Arts and Antiques to the Public”.

To celebrate the approach of the Beijing Olympic Games, this year’s event also includes the results of the Olympics Imagination Art Contest, which invited the public to demonstrate its creativity and help support the Olympic spirit. The entries, which included a wide range of paintings and sculptures, were judged by a panel composed of industry experts and celebrities. Through careful judgement and evaluation, the winning works were selected and awarded at a presentation ceremony also held today.

To complete this high-profile Fair, the organizer has invited over 10 representatives from a variety of Chinese museums as well as highly experienced arts and antiques professionals to attend a Forum entitled ‘Valuables in Markets, Treasures in Museums – The Relationship Between Museums & Arts Markets’. Four experts will also speak on the subject ‘Collection and Appreciation’. To ensure all items at the Fair are genuine, the organizer has further invited nine internationally-renowned vetting committee members to preside over the event.

About AIAA 2008

Located in the heart of Asia, Hong Kong has, and always will be, an important gateway to China. This is why the AIAA selected this vibrant metropolis as the focal point for its event, which brings together antique dealers, antique lovers and private collectors from all over the world. Hong Kong is proud that its antique market has witnessed remarkable growth over the years. Thanks to the hard work, commitment and contribution of many respectable antique dealers from various corners of the world, the AIAA has become an important milestone in Hong Kong's art history. Indeed, the great success of AIAA 2007 has already laid a firm foundation for the success of AIAA 2008.

Venue: AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong (adjacent to Hong Kong International Airport)
Date: 23-26 May 2008 (Friday-Monday)
Admission Fee: HK$100

Media Enquiry:
Paper Communication Exhibition Services
Tel: (852) 2763 9011
Fax: (852) 2341 0379
Email: aiaa@paper-com.com.hk
Contact person: Ms. Connie Ho

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