Cover Angelle Siyang-Le in Tai Kwun (Photo: Zed Leets/ Tatler Hong Kong. Illustration: Francesca Gamboa)
Angelle Siyang-Le in Tai Kwun (Photo: Zed Leets/ Tatler Hong Kong. Illustration: Francesca Gamboa)
1 / 1
Angelle Siyang-Le is the director of Art Basel Hong Kong. Ahead of the fair this month, she speaks to Tatler about pushing the limits, sharing a burger with a renowned artist and her dream of lighting up all the skyscrapers in Hong Kong
I have always loved art and literature, but it wasn’t until I received a scholarship for art and design during my A-Levels in high school in London that I began to think about art seriously. As a teenager, this scholarship not only validated my passion but also encouraged my parents to support me in pursuing a path in the arts. My mother said: “You must be able to find a job in this so-called “art world”’—and I did.
The different cultures I’ve experienced while living in many places [Siyang-Le lived in London, Vancouver and Dubai before moving to Hong Kong] over the years have really blurred lines for me—whether it’s geographical boundaries, gender roles or identities. I’ve seen these limits pushed and challenged, especially when working with artists who love to experiment without restrictions. I like to think of myself as a facilitator in the art world—adapting to the needs of our vibrant art ecosystem. [Living abroad] has opened my eyes to new ways of seeing art, helping me to expand and challenge my own perspective. I’m passionate about supporting art that allows us to transcend limitations and inspires us with fresh visions for the future.
If I wasn’t in the art world, I would be absolutely devastated. However, I did dream of being a writer when I was a child, which would have also allowed me to cultivate and share cultures. There have been countless moments that have filled me with joy, like sharing a burger side-by- side with artist Maurizio Cattelan or asking Jeff Koons a challenging question. However, my favourite moment is always witnessing the hour before each show’s opening. It’s a magical time when gallery owners gather with their teams at the booths and prepare for those golden first few hours of the fair. The anticipation in the air is palpable, and it’s a reminder of the passion and dedication that fuels the art world.
Above Angelle Siyang-Le in Tai Kwun (Photo: Zed Leets/ Tatler Hong Kong)
Angelle Siyang-Le in Tai Kwun (Photo: Zed Leets/ Tatler Hong Kong)
1 / 1
Hong Kong’s art scene has evolved since I first entered the industry. Hong Kong boasts one of the most comprehensive art ecosystems in Asia, with a strong visual art community that continues to grow. Its homegrown galleries are also cultivating local talents like Samson Young, Trevor Yeung and Leelee Chan, who have made a significant impact on the global art stage. At this year’s Art Basel in Hong Kong, there will be 32 exhibitors showcasing their works, further highlighting the city’s vibrant art scene.
A common misconception about Art Basel that I’d like to debunk is that we just work one week of the year at the fair. If that were the case, I’d be the reigning champion of procrastination. Together with the team, I am more like a circus performer juggling flaming torches—between conceptualising, planning, strategising and sometimes trying to remember where I left my coffee—and my kids. The fair is just the grand finale of a year’s worth of behind-the-scenes chaos. The entire Art Basel show in Hong Kong is built within two and a half days, which is a very fast turnaround for an event at this scale.
One of my greatest mentors who first brought me into the art fair business and has continuously nurtured my growth said: “Be ambitious and be bold. Own it, love it—it is yours to shepherd but it belongs to everyone in Asia and beyond.” Art can be healing.
At Art Basel, we’re dedicated to supporting emerging artists, and I’m excited about the MGM Discoveries Art Prize at this year’s show. This prize is specifically aimed at nurturing new talent, and we’ll be awarding its first winner in 2025.
One thing I’ve noticed in recent years is how personal collecting has become. Collectors in our region, in particular, are increasingly focused on building collections that reflect strong themes and resonate with their own beliefs and experiences. This evolution not only enriches the art scene but also creates a deeper connection between art and its audience. I see an increased blend of physical and virtual experiences at art fairs, creating hybrid platforms that enhance visitor engagement and broaden the reach of the audience.
Above Siyang-Le’s mother Mary Zhang at age 30, the same age Siyang-Le was when she had her first child (Photo: courtesy of Siyang-Le)
Siyang-Le’s mother Mary Zhang at age 30, the same age Siyang-Le was when she had her first child (Photo: courtesy of Siyang-Le)
1 / 1
Above Siyang-Le at Art Basel Hong Kong in 2015 with her then boyfriend, now husband Grégoire Daudé (Photo: courtesy of Siyang-Le)
Above Siyang-Le, seven months pregnant with her second child, during the set-up for Art Basel Hong Kong 2019 (Photo: courtesy of Siyang-Le)
Siyang-Le at Art Basel Hong Kong in 2015 with her then boyfriend, now husband Grégoire Daudé (Photo: courtesy of Siyang-Le)
1 / 2
A few pieces of art that I bought from artist friends at the start of their careers always remind me of how we all began our journeys together, and they have a very special meaning to me.
If I could curate a dream exhibition with no limits, I’d activate all the skyscrapers, architectural landmarks and cultural heritage sites in Hong Kong and transform the urban landscape entirely for the week of the fair in celebration of creativity.
My perfect day in Hong Kong would kick off with a refreshing surf session at Big Wave Bay at dawn, where the waves remind me that the force of nature is always greater than my needs. After catching some waves, I’d head to Salisterra for brunch with a few close friends to enjoy the breathtaking views of Hong Kong from the 49th floor of The Upper House. I always try to make time for my loved ones, no matter how busy I am. [As for an ideal day during Art Basel], with the show opening at noon, I’d dive into mingling with inspiring gallerists and artists at the fair and exploring the incredible new works that galleries bring specifically for the show. I’d love to wrap up my art adventure at the latest exhibition at M+, ideally with a dedicated ferry service from the Art Basel show in Wan Chai to M+ in West Kowloon, where I can also dine on the top floor and take in yet another stunning perspective of the city. If I’m feeling adventurous, I might opt for event hopping in the evening since the fair week is always filled with amazing events. Or perhaps I’ll take a night hike up The Peak, because why not? But as tempting as the nightlife can be during fair week, I make sure to be in bed by midnight. After all, being a mum with young kids means I need to save my energy for the next day’s adventures.
Credits
Creative Direction: Zoe Yau / Tatler Hong Kong
Photography: Zed Leets / Tatler Hong Kong
Photography Assistant: Carlos Hui / Tatler Hong Kong
Location: Tai Kwun
As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision across social, digital and print, and reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and leaders across business, style and the arts. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she also drives the planning and execution of Tatler's flagship IPs, curating star-studded events and building the relationships and communities that define the brand. Born and raised in the Middle East, she honed her craft in Dubai, crafting communication strategies for luxury brands across the Gulf. Follow her on Instagram @tarasobti.
