Moderated by private collector and arts patron Margaret Wang, the panel, part of the Conservations programme at Art Basel Hong Kong 2025, featured Jeffrey Ziyu Liu (Co-Founder of Stilllife and Co-Chair of Rockbund Art Museum’s Young Patron Council), René Meile (Partner, Galerie Urs Meile), and Carola Wiese (Senior Art Advisor, Global Wealth Management, ۶Ƶ). Together, they offered a multifaceted view on how young collectors are transforming the art landscape across Mainland China, Hong Kong, and the broader region.

The discussion began with the panellists contextualizing the conversation within a moment of dynamic change for the region, emphasizing the significance of renewed global exchangepost-pandemic, as well as the rise of new voices and perspectives within the art ecosystem.

Reflecting on the increasing importance of cross-cultural dialogue and the unique perspective of young collectors who navigate both local and global art worlds, Jeffrey mentioned that “it is a very unique experience to be diasporic or have this East and West identity…to have these multiple access points or ways of thinking .”

Intertwined with this global outlook is a deep awareness of intergenerational collecting. Carola emphasized how younger collectors are building on family traditions, while also expanding their focus. “There is often a family theme within the collection or a certain focus, and then enhancing that collection with more Chinese positions. [The young generation] are generally spreading out wings and becoming more global. This is what makes it so exciting.”

Another noteworthy shift is the influence of digital technology and social media. The panel explored how digital channels have democratized access to art, providing young collectors with unprecedented opportunities to discover, connect, and acquire works. While the physical experience of seeing art in person remains irreplaceable, digital tools now play a crucial role in building knowledge and expanding networks.

Underlying these trends is a powerful drive towards community building. Today’s young collectors are motivated not merely by prestige or investment, but by a desire to act as custodians and connectors within the ecosystem by supporting artists directly, sharing their collections with the public, and fostering inclusive, grassroots communities. As René believes, “Building up a community – a kind of grassroot approach – is so important because I think it’s how culture should grow before you actually define it or build a shell around it.” Jeffery further anchored this point by noting that “collecting” has become “connecting,” with an emphasis on relationships, cultural exchange, and the long-term growth of the art world.

The conversation made it clear that there is no single profile of the young Chinese collector. Instead, diversity is a hallmark of this generation, with a wide range of collecting approaches. This variety reflects a rapidly maturing and vibrant cultural ecosystem, where multiple narratives and entry points coexist and enrich each other.

Whether motivated by family legacy, entrepreneurial spirit, or a passion for supporting artists, the panel concluded that this generation is not only shaping the future of collecting in the region, but also redefining what it means to be part of a global art community.

Watch the full conversation to hear directly from the voices driving the next chapter of collecting in Greater China: