Category: Art

Arty Party: Carrie Lam officiates Fine Art Asia 2018

In line with a tradition dating back to 2012, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive Carrie Lam hosted the opening of this year’s Fine Art Asia, the region’s biggest international arts fair, which, in a new development for 2018, is being co-staged with Ink Asia, the world’s first ever ink art fair. With two events taking over the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre late last month, visitors had an unmissable chance to peruse a wide range of art from both the East and the West. Check out who all attended…

Safeguarding the Community Exhibition Touches China’s Intangible Roots

Safeguarding the Community: An Intangible Cultural Heritage New Media Exhibition – a part of the Hong Kong Culture Festival – explores China’s forgotten cultural roots, creating a bridge between the past and the present.

Safeguarding the Community

Running from now till 10 October 2018, the Safeguarding the Community exhibition does just that – brings back memories of a culture long lost and safeguards the society against collective amnesia. Divided into eight zones, the exhibition delves into various periods in Chinese history – the feuds during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the intricacies of the Fujian martial arts, various rites and rituals thought to ward off evil spirits like the fire dragon dance, Hakka unicorn dance and many more.

Safeguarding the Community

At the heart of this exhibition is the evocative use of digital media to connect the dots with the past. Hence we see artists like Stanley Wong create fire dragon dance animations using visual effects and an interactive Wokou scroll from Tokyo University that shows the battle between the Ming kings and the Wokou pirates vividly.

Safeguarding the Community

Thanks to technology, the past unfurls before our eyes – and that is exactly where the success of the exhibition lies.

Safeguarding the Community

Safeguarding the Community: An Intangible Cultural Heritage New Media Exhibition
14 September to 10 October, 2018
Monday to Sunday, 9am – 8pm
Free Admission

Art-to-art talk with Gilles Dyan, founder of Opera Gallery

Gilles Dyan, founder and co-chairman of the highly acclaimed Opera Gallery, has had a meteoric career to say the least. From starting by selling prints from door to door to owning one of the most respected art galleries in the world, his journey is as colourful as the art he sells. We sit down to talk to him on all things artistic.

 Gilles Dyan

Q: You started as a door-to-door salesman selling prints. Now you own one of the leading art galleries in the world. Tell us about the journey.

Gilles Dyan: I have always been passionate about art. My youth was somewhat chaotic and I needed to start working at an early age. I didn’t have the chance to go to university to study art. However, I was very fortunate to grow up in Paris, surrounded by beautiful art museums where I would spend all my free time. Of course, with no proper artistic background, I couldn’t pretend to work in an art gallery…So, I became a door-to-door salesman selling prints and original paintings by local artists! I actually loved it and, without undue modesty, I became quite good at it. Somehow, I got invited to participate in an art fair in Singapore. My booth was such a success that I managed to find the financial backing to be able to open my first Opera Gallery in Singapore.

I opened a gallery in Paris soon after. This was in 1994. The Hong Kong space was opened in 2005. My years as a door-to-door salesman taught me that you don’t need to be rich or educated to appreciate art or to own art. Most people I sold to at the time were people who didn’t always have big means and were intimidated to walk into art galleries. That is how I got the idea of creating spaces that could be accessible to everyone, showing masterpieces by established artists alongside pieces by young emerging artists. Art should be accessible to everyone, not just to the elite.

Q: Opera Gallery already has presence in so many countries. Are there others opening in the near future and, if yes, in which countries?

Gilles Dyan: Opera Gallery has 13 spaces around the world, in Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Dubai, Beirut, New York, Miami, Aspen, London, Paris, Monaco, Geneva and, since March this year, in Zurich. I think that is already quite a lot, don’t you? Of course, I still want Opera Gallery to expand but I want to do it carefully. We are not a supermarket chain! I want to continue being able to show good-quality and carefully-selected art in each Opera Gallery space and I don’t believe you can do that if you expand too rapidly. Let’s say I am studying a few opportunities, but it is too early to divulge any details.

 Q: How do you decide which artists to work with?

Gilles Dyan: Opera Gallery shows works by established artists as well as works by younger emerging artists that we try to promote. You wouldn’t believe how much talent there is out there! We receive portfolios by young artists every day and from everywhere around the world. So how do we choose? First of all I only work with artists whose work I personally like and admire – it is much easier to promote the work of an artist you really appreciate, that you believe in. Basically, I follow my instincts – the art must talk to me. I love all the artists we have in all 13 galleries! Secondly, I am very attentive to our collectors’ demands of course – and lastly, I rely on my staff a lot. I am lucky enough to have a wonderful staff who have discovered very talented local young artists.

Q: How important is it for Opera Gallery to promote local artists in each city where the gallery is located?

Gilles Dyan: It is very important! We are lucky enough to be established in countries where there are incredibly talented artists. Not only do we try to promote these young talents locally but our ultimate aim is to show their work in our other galleries internationally. Our collectors love to discover new talents. This is one of the things I appreciate most about having galleries worldwide – to have my European collectors discover Asian talent and vice versa.

Q: Lastly, are there any recent artists who have stood out and made a lasting impression on you?

Gilles Dyan: This is a tough question because, as I told you before, I admire each and every artist whose work I show in my galleries. Of course, some of them go on to become more successful than others, but frankly, each artist I have exhibited over the years has affected me some way or the other.

Thank you.

Interview by Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Flying Start to Buying Art at Macey & Sons with Asia Miles Points

As the whisky-loving world comes to terms with the shortage of aged Japanese Whisky, Macey & Sons, house of art, antiques and luxury collectibles, has consigned over 100 bottles of rare Japanese and Scotch single-malt whiskies for true whisky lovers.

Macey & Sons

Macey & Sons’ ‘The Whisky Auction Day’ will be held on Thursday 25 October 2018, from 6pm to 9pm. An exclusive VIP viewing will be held on 18 October, from 7pm to 9pm. General viewing will take place on 19, 22, 23, 24 and 25 October, from 10am to 8pm daily.

Macey & Sons

Macey & Sons not only has access to incredible pieces of fine art and collectibles, the auction house also likes to show their appreciation to new and loyal clients in many different ways. With that in mind, from 1 September 2018, Macey & Sons is partnering with Asia Miles. For every piece of fine and contemporary art or collectibles purchased, customers can get 1 Asia Miles point per HK$5 dollar spent.

To register interest, inquire or request a call back, contact info@Maceyandsons.com or +8523468 7908

Affairs of the Art: Fine Art Asia 2018 and Ink Asia 2018 from 29 September to 2 October

Good news for those who have their heart set on art this season! Fine Art Asia 2018, Asia’s leading international fine arts fair, returns to Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre this fall, along with Ink Asia 2018, the world’s first art fair dedicated to ink art.

Fine Art Asia 2018

Taking place from 29 September to 2 October 2018 (with a VIP preview and Vernissage on 28 September), the two events will open up a world of artistic possibilities for art aficionados. While Fine Art Asia 2018 will showcase a wide array of art, ranging from Western artists’ Impressionist paintings and avant garde photography to Oriental artifacts, Ink Asia 2018 will focus on contemporary ink and ink-inspired works.

Fine Art Asia 2018

Bringing together worlds both ancient and modern, the fairs will provide a unique opportunity to view and acquire the best artworks across a wide range of categories.

Fine Art Asia 2018

Andy Hei, founder and director of Fine Art Asia and Ink Asia, said, “As always, our aim is to create a professional platform for the art market in Hong Kong, and to promote cultural exchange between East and West. Hong Kong is the focal point of the art market in Asia. Fine Art Asia 2018 and Ink Asia 2018 provide ideal platforms for international galleries to cater to the aspirations of knowledgeable collectors.”

Fine Art Asia 2018

Zao’s Wows: Abstract works by Zao Wou-Ki go for unrecognisable figures

One artist above all dominated proceedings at Christie’s Hong Kong’s 20th Century Asian & Contemporary Art Sale – Zao Wou-Ki, with many of the esteemed abstract master’s works going for well beyond their original estimates.

Zao Wou-Ki

One such piece was the enigmatically titled 14.12.59, which eventually went for a remarkable US$22.5 million, nearly double its initial estimate. Tellingly, even those unsteeped in the arcane nuances of the fine arts world confessed themselves drawn by the primeval force of this painting by Zao Wou-Ki, with its bold red and black hues embodying passion, fire, blood and life itself.

Zao Wou-Ki

02.11.59, another of the Beijing-born artist’s classic works in oil, which sold for US$12 million, again reflects the battle between the light and the dark, one of Zao’s most abiding motifs. With both works completed in 1959, part of their value is derived from the rare insights they offer into the late painter’s more mature artistic vision. With the value only set to soar as the posthumous reputation of Zao Wou-Ki continues to build, his works seem to offer that rarest combination – aesthetic delight and escalating investment value.

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Old Master Q Drawings fetch astronomical prices at recent auction

Nostalgia gripped Hong Kong this August as comic artist Alphonso Wong Ka-hei’s Old Master Q 2.0 comic series went under the hammer at a Sotheby’s online auction recently for an astonishing HK$650,000, five times over its original estimate!

Old Master Q

In the early 1960s, Alphonso Wong Ka-hei began his Old Master Q comic series, which went on to enjoy a meteoric rise to fame, thanks to the social and cultural narrative of the series. His legendary characters, Old Master Q, Big Potato, Mr. Chin and Miss Chan became a symbol of Hong Kong’s culture, forming the collective childhood memory of entire generations. In 1995, Alphonso’s son, Professor Joseph Wong, took up the mantle and founded the Old Master Q Company.

Old Master Q

The exhibition showcased original works by both generations of the Wong family, including Alphonso Wong’s early colour covers and comic strips.  Jonathan Wong, Gallery Director, says: ‘We are fortunate enough to present the earliest existing Old Master Q cover artwork on our online auction platform, allowing participation from collectors and fans around the world. Through version 2.0 of the series exhibition, we hope to express our sincerest tribute to Alphonso Wong, and to share with the audience the nostalgia of old Hong Kong.”

Affairs of the Art: Upcoming art exhibitions in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s art scene may reach a peak every March, but those who have their heart set on art are in for some good news. A bunch of art exhibitions are coming up in town and we’ve rounded them up for you.

art exhibitions

First up is ArtisTree’s Open Rehearsal Series by the International Contemporary Dance Collective (iCoDaCo) which is hosting a dance production and open workshops on 17, 20 and 22 August. Guests will not only be able to engage in open rehearsals with iCoDaCo members, but will also be able to appreciate the performances of stalwarts like the internationally renowned solo artist Mui Cheuk-yin, an internationally acclaimed solo artist, Joseph Lee, the only Hong Kong dancer to have taken part in the 2018 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and Weronika Pelczyńska, award-winning Polish dance artist.

art exhibitions

Those looking to delve into the fine arts can, in the meanwhile, also check out the Impressionist, Modern & Contemporary Art exhibition to be showcased at this year’s edition of Fine Art Asia 2018, which is taking place at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 29 September to 2 October. On display will be a whole range of contemporary art and sculpture pieces curated from across the world. A masterpiece by Surrealist painter Salvador Dali, La Vierge et le Rhinocéros, will be headlining the exhibition.

art exhibitions

While there, you’d be well-advised to also check out the Photography exhibition at the art fair. Showcasing the best creations from a global selection of galleries chosen by Boogie Woogie Photography, the exhibition hosts a plethora of photographs from contemporary to vintage, from international photographers to Hong Kong’s very own shutterbugs. One of the highlights will be the f22 foto space (Hong Kong) which is hosting a solo exhibition by American photographer Elliott Erwitt. Best known for his candid black and white images, Erwitt has captured numerous iconic shots of luminaries like Marilyn Monroe, Che Guevara and Richard Nixon.

 

art exhibitions

Meanwhile, Alisan Fine Arts is focusing on local heritage at its Aberdeen Gallery with an art exhibition titled Chinese Dreams, as participation in the South Island Cultural District Art Day 2018 on 22 September. Running from then till 15 December, the exhibition is a nostalgic look-back at Chinese art through the works of diaspora artists like Yi Kai and Wu Shaoxiang.

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Must-see Museums: Three of the hottest Amsterdam museum hotspots

When thinking of Amsterdam, one may be forgiven for conjuring up images of milkmaids in clogs, Edam cheese and windmills. But in fact, the Dutch city is something of a hotspot when it comes to art and historical sights. Here are some must-see museums to visit while you’re in The Dam.

The sprawling Rijksmuseum tops our list of must-see museums in Amsterdam

Rijksmuseum – For artworks by Dutch masters

Perhaps the best-known among Amsterdam’s must-see museums, the Rijksmuseum boasts a veritable treasure trove of collective works from Dutch masters painted at the height of its artistic Dutch Golden Age. A total of 8,000 pieces are on display here, with highlights including The Night Watch by Rembrandt, The Milkmaid by Johannes Vermeer and The Meagre Company by Frans Hals. If you attempt a visit here, come early and head straight to the Gallery of Honour on the second floor to see these exemplary pieces.

The Night Watch by Rembrand is the highlight of the Rikjsmuseum collection
The Night Watch by Rembrandt is the highlight of the Rikjsmuseum collection

Van Gogh Museum – For an intimate look at the artist’s works and life

Almost directly adjacent to Rijksmuseum is the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Vincent Van Gogh. Opened in 1973, it boasts the largest collection of the artist’s paintings and correspondences in the world. Just last year, it had over 2.3 million visitors, making it Amsterdam’s most popular museum by far. Highlights here include The Potato Eaters, Sunflowers and a series of his most well-regarded self portraits.

Van Gogh Museum boasts the biggest collection of Van Gogh artworks in the world
Van Gogh Museum boasts the biggest collection of Van Gogh artworks in the world

Anne Frank House – For the WWII history buff

The unassuming office building where Anne Frank, the famous young Jewish diarist, lived in hiding with her family during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam, is now the home of Anne Frank House. The original annex where Frank and six other occupants resided in cramped quarters for over two years is still  Here, visitors can expect a sombre exhibition on the persecution of Jews during the war, as well as the annex where Frank and six other occupants managed to live under the Nazi radar for two years.

Anne Frank House houses the annex where Anne Frank hid from Nazi invaders
Anne Frank House houses the annex where Anne Frank hid from Nazi invaders

Pro Tip: Make sure you reserve your tickets online well in advance of your trip if you want to skip the long queues at the door

Picasso masterpiece ‘Golden Muse’ sells for millions at Sotheby’s

Sotheby’s London struck gold with yet another Picasso painting Buste de femme de profil, which sold for US$36 million last week.

Picasso

The 1932 portrait, like many other of Picasso’s paintings, depicts his ‘golden muse’ and lover Marie-Thérèse Walter in a private moment, lost in her writings. Perhaps in keeping with a affectionate phase in their relationship, the portrait is a tender one, focusing on her youth and beauty. Picasso imagines her in the act of writing with downcast eyes, contemplating on the paper in front of her, as her profile is lit up by a mellow sunlight through an open window. The scene seems inspired by real life and was definitely a composition which stayed with Picasso, as he returned to it in a smaller-scale work sometime later.

Picasso

1932 was a particularly important phase in Picasso’s oeuvre, as this was the year when he publicly professed his love for Marie-Thérèse Walter, leading him to paint her portraits more prolifically.