Five days, 170 galleries from 33 countries, 40,500 visitors and a slew of activities made for another strong showing at the sixth edition of Art Stage Singapore — despite the forecast economic malaise. The Asian art fair saw a strong start as collectors picked up key pieces right from the vernissage on January 20, and interaction with art and their makers continued at nightly after-parties at IndoChine Chijmes, Loof, Hotel Vagabond and Canvas. Key artists and industry players shared insights at a series of forums with a Southeast Asian focus, including one on Day 1 where the “Mick Jagger of art auctions” Simon de Pury and Art Stage founder, and president Lorenzo Rudolf discussed the state of affairs and the trending role of Asia in the art world. Top international and local collectors were also hosted by Rudolf and his effervescent wife Maria Elena at a private dinner at Le Freeport on January 23.