The Art Paris Art Fair has been gaining considerable momentum over the last few years. Determined to carve out a unique identity for itself — one that separates it from the better-known Fiac — the fair has continually looked eastward, to the burgeoning art scenes in Central Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. On the heels of last year’s successful spotlighting of Russian art, this year’s special guest of honor will be China, where the art market has seen considerable growth over the last decade.

In 2011, China became the world’s largest auction market for the first time, overtaking both the United States and Europe. Though the United States has since regained its number one position in the art market, China continues to assert itself within the industry.

In recognition of the country’s significance in the art world, and in celebration of the 50-year relationship between France and China, this year’s fair will include 10 Chinese galleries, bringing with them more than 90 Chinese artists. Standouts include Wang Keping, founder of the radical Stars collective, whose members—Ai Weiwei among them—have become household names around the world. Capitalizing on the incredible space that is the Grand Palais, Liu Bolin’s large-scale sculptural work, specially created for the fair, will be installed at the main entrance.

Participating galleries include Galerie Paris-Beijing, Blindspot Gallery, Beautiful Asset Art Project, and 10 Chancery Lane.

The fair takes place March 27 through 30, 2014.

—Alissa Darsa