HONG KONG.- Hauser & Wirth has been active in Asia for over a decade, and developed its presence through a Hong Kong space, which opened in 2018, and an ongoing program of exhibitions, partnerships, and fair presentations. A highly respected industry figure, Kwok will bring enhanced leadership to the Asia team ensuring that excellence and an artist-centered approach continue to be the hallmarks of Hauser & Wirths growing activity in the region.
Kwok joins Hauser & Wirth with an outstanding track record of art world experience following a 15-year tenure at Christies auction house, most recently as Director, 20th and 21st Century Art and principal auctioneer. Kwok launched and led Christies Education in Asia for six years as part of the auction houses expansion into China. She holds an advisory role on the Museum Committee for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and is Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee for Friends of Hong Kong Museum of Art.
At Hauser & Wirth, Kwoks strategic guidance and exemplary network will reinforce the gallerys strong relationships with collectors, public institutions, and private museums in China and across Asia. Based in Hong Kong, Kwok will report directly to the global CEO, Ewan Venters, working closely with the Presidents of the gallery, Iwan Wirth, Manuela Wirth, and Marc Payot.
Kwok earned her two Masters degrees from Stanford Graduate School of Business and from the School of Oriental and African Studies in London. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in History and Literature from Harvard University.
Ewan Venters commented: We are thrilled that Elaine has decided to join to the gallery and are excited to continue to develop relationships in the region on behalf of our artists. With Elaine on board as our Managing Partner in Asia, we reaffirm our commitment to the region and look forward to deepening our connections and developing new projects.