OVR is Art Basel’s virtual platform connecting the world’s leading galleries with the global network of collectors and art enthusiasts. The abbreviation “OVR”, shorthand for “Online Viewing Rooms”, was barely used in art market circles before the Covid-19 pandemic. It is now almost inescapable. Originally coined by galleries to describe a dedicated area of their website for registered users, OVRs have effectively replaced art fairs, proving a relatively quick way to pool exhibitors together digitally and galvanise attention. In the eye of the pandemic’s storm, the OVRs kept the art world active during a very difficult time and were almost crucial to survival.
OVR “Portals”
‘OVR: Portals’ will focus on artistic practices that interrogate the parameters that have shaped our contemporary condition, both through current and historical lenses. Together, the featured presentations will address the disconnected realities that arose as a consequence of the events of the past year.
OVR “Pioneers”
Featuring 100 galleries from 25 countries and territories, ‘OVR: Pioneers’ was dedicated to artists who have broken new grounds for example aesthetically, conceptually, or socio-politically. Participating galleries presented tightly curated solo or group exhibitions, showing up to eight works simultaneously.
