No matter how smart, connected, and well-resourced you are, sometimes you simply need an expert—and not just any expert, but that rarefied insider other specialists call when they need help. Luckily, Robb Report has a roster of such world-class professionals on speed dial. This month, it’s Marcello Kwan, Head of Modern and Contemporary Art, Asia of the international auction house Bonhams. Hong Kong born and bred, Kwan spends his time securing prominent star lots and curating exhibitions. When he’s off the auction block, Kwan spends his time painting.

Marcello Kwan and Tetsuya Ishida’s General Manager’s Chair in an Abandoned Building, which sold for HK$7,624,000 at Bonhams Hong Kong in May 2025.

The Expert

Name: Marcello Kwan

Occupation: Head of Modern and Contemporary Art, Asia, Bonhams

Headquarters: Hong Kong

Specialty: Savant of Fine Arts

With the current art market facing issues such as counterfeits, fraud, and oversaturation, what are the most reliable strategies for investing in art today to ensure both authenticity and the best possible return on investment?

“My client recently asked for advice on a piece that was allegedly by Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara. I compared the image with his other works from his catalogues. As I previously studied fine art, I noticed that the brush strokes of the piece were different from other pieces by Nara, but not everyone has this sort of training in painting or drawing. The company that offered this work to him couldn’t even identify that it was a copy as it looked very similar to the original, which was disappointing.

“I recommend looking at an artist’s catalogue, which is the complete collection of their work. That is the most basic research and comparison to make sure you are looking at the right piece. You have to do a lot of homework and know the artist’s style. Rather than buying pieces online, which became the norm during the COVID-19 lockdown, I suggest viewing the artwork in person when possible, as there can be a lot of variation in colour and texture. Train your eyes by visiting the artist’s solo exhibition or retrospective in a museum. You may be able to identify something that looks dubious in a piece this way after familiarising yourself with their artworks.

“At the end of the day, it’s best to consult multiple professionals. Some artists have a foundation you can talk to, while there are some scholars who conduct studies on specific artists. You can check with them for other channels to be connected to as well.”

Name an Asian artist who’s seriously underrated that collectors should be getting their hands on.

“There are many talented local artists to watch, and one example is Hong Kong artist Stephen Wong Chun Hei. He’s not necessarily underrated, but someone who’s up and coming. A few years ago, we organised a solo exhibition for him and his prices have already gone up since. He’s a serious young artist, who’s working very hard to move up another level.”

What’s your advice for building a collection over time through auctions, rather than just acquiring single pieces?

“Rather than deciding to buy through auctions or galleries, I’d advise someone to know their own taste, instead of buying with the purpose of filling up a wall. Collecting art is very personal, and it reflects your own interests and background.”

How can bidders best research an artwork before the sale—beyond just reading the catalogue?

“It’s important to do research from a variety of sources through art platforms, such as Artnet, Artprice, and Artpro. It’s also important to look at past records to obtain a broad database, beyond just the results from the past six months.”

Is there a difference in strategy between bidding early, jumping in late, or placing an absentee bid?

“It really depends on a case-by-case basis. Bidding early can potentially discourage others. Jumping in late is what very experienced buyers do for popular lots. An absentee bid allows you to buy rationally and not on impulse.”

What are some cities with a burgeoning art scene that you would recommend visiting?

“Every city has their own style. I just came back from Seoul, and they have set up galleries near Gyeongbokgung, the royal palace. I also see the art market gaining momentum in Paris in recent years, alongside London’s established presence.”

Yayoi Kusama/Keith Haring

“During my university days, I saw a beautiful installation of hers with the Infinity Mirror Room and pumpkins, which is a memory that stays with me.”

MOMA/Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

“It would be a good excuse to travel to Spain one day, as I haven’t been yet.”

Paris/Florence

“I studied Italian and visited the city for one month afterwards, which was a fantastic trip.”

Oil paint/Acrylic

“As I also paint, it’s just something that’s easier to handle.”

Studio Visit/Gallery Opening

“There’s no better way to talk to the artist and really understand their art.”

Bonhams