In Conversation with Seth Yeung: Hong Kong’s upcoming fashion designer

The DFA or the Design for Asia Awards, a flagship programme of the Hong Kong Design Centre, is a unique international platform that celebrates Asian design excellence and recognises outstanding design talent in the region. Covering four major design disciplines, the aim here is to propagate Asian values and perspectives in the sphere of innovation and design globally. The 2021 edition was held on 1 December at the newly opened M+ Museum in West Kowloon Cultural District.

Gafencu caught up with Seth Yeung, a celebrated textile designer known for his quirky, unconventional line of knitwear, and recognised in the Smart Young Design Talent Award category, to learn about his passion for artistry and innovation. The young local designer inherited his love for animals and creativity from his dexterous mother who would often knit outfits for their pets.

*Winners of the 2021 Smart Young Design Talent Award category, DFA*

Your line of knitwear is modern, edgy and a bestseller. Where do you find inspiration?

As a designer I find inspiration in objects and moments around me. It’s often the most random of things which strike a chord. It could be a suggested video from YouTube, AI algorithm or even staring at an old rusted door frame. More than the object itself, what catches my attention is the colour, shape and the definition of the object.

Your style is unique and experimental. What made you decide on using pet’s hair in your ‘So…close’ collaboration?

*Seth Yeung (left) with one of his creations (right)*

WOUF is a new innovative and award-winning start-up which recycles and repurposes pet hair into products. The relationship between the pet and its owner is protective and priceless. The company was struggling to find the right knitwear designer to launch their flagship collection when they randomly chanced upon the media coverage of one of my works. The rest is history. I had fun doing this project, I am a big animal lover and was so glad to add my luxury knitwear background into this brand and create something remarkable, creative and thoughtful.

You recently won a DFA award, how has it impacted your design career?

I’ve always followed this award since I graduated but never really got to applying in it. After the guidance of a feng shui master, I decided to enroll myself in this. I am very grateful to receive such a well-established and recognised award. It is a huge honour, one that comes with a huge opportunity to broaden my horizons.

(This post is in partnership with Hong Kong Design Centre which holds the Design for Asia Awards)

Oriental Watch Company X Madame Fù Presents: Take Your Time – Savour the Moment

Hong Kong’s very own home-grown watch retailer, Oriental Watch Company, celebrates its 60th anniversary as a prominent and highly respected influence in the watchmaking industry for the last six decades.

As any timekeeper would dictate, 60 is a number that symbolises both the end, as well as beginning of time. With that, the company pays homage to its Diamond Jubilees, a memorable milestone for the brand.

“We are delighted to explore and rethink the meaning of time with our partners, our friends and the public while celebrating our Diamond Jubilee”, says Managing Director of Oriental Watch Company Dennis Yeung.

Priding itself as a company that excels in every aspect of expertise, services and business, the brand honours its roots to the city through the thematic collaboration with chic contemporary Cantonese dining space Madame Fù and award-winning local artist Sim Chan; set right in the heart of the heritage complex of Tai Kwun, Central.

From 22 November to 10 December, diners will be treated to a multi-sensory gourmet experience that combines a delectable feast, an opulent venue and an artistic installation, The Discovery of Time ~ 1961.

This collaboration serves as the perfect partnership to reflect the brand’s philosophy of merging tradition with the new to deliver the best of the West and the East together. Presenting a 6-course menu, meticulously designed by Kit Liao, Head Chef of Madame Fù: (1) Golden Years; (2) Diamond Jubilee; (3) Precious Memories; (4) Green Celebration; (5) Blessed Longevity; and (6) Sweet Moments, each dish embodies the essence of the theme, Take Your Time – Savour the Moment, while showcasing the painstaking unity of art and time.

Showcased in the background, artist Sim Chan presents creatively illustrates his reflection of the essence of time by painting the grids of 365 squares that represent each day of the 12-months, Chan has painted a swatch of colour on each grid, one day at a time, over the span of 30 days, producing a 12 canvases of unique gradients as the metaphor for the passing of time.

Each guest will receive the Art Canvas Tote Bag presented with a printed pattern of squares, representing the month of November 2021, as a commemorative gift for their own keepsake.

Reserve a table at Madame Fù, 3rd Floor,Tai Kwun, No. 10 Hollywood Road, Central; (852) 2114 2118 / reservations@madamefu.com.hk

Top tips to light up your fine art collection

Artwork, as any interior decorator would say, is the perfect way to add depth and a touch of class and character to any space. But if decorating the home was as simple as hanging a canvas on a wall or setting a sculpture in the corner, many of us would qualify to become expert decorators.

With all the excitement of recent art exhibition in the past months, and more still to come, what better way to make the most of your artsy investment than to optimise your lighting at home to highlight your art pieces. Here are our top tips and tricks to light up fine art at home and make your gallery shine:

1. Keep paintings away from direct sunlight

Every home is made more homely with ample natural light to spill into the room, but when it comes to placing paintings directly under the glare of the sun, it would be wise to reconsider another place to light up fine art than next to the windows. UV rays and infrared light break down organic compounds causing binders in substances like those in paint to break down and degrade. So make sure your oil paintings are positioned away from direct sunlight or any source of infrared light.

2. Layer your lighting and place them at a 30-degree angle

Good design is all about layers, and lighting is no exception. Layering your light source helps create contrast, accentuate elements and highlight colours and textures. Building off of ambient lighting as a base layer to illuminate the room, you can then decide on placing recessed lights (down lights) above or accent lights next to or near art pieces to highlight specific areas, of the artwork — creating drama and shadows that position the art piece as the focal point of the room.

With recessed lights and spotlights, you can adjust and angle them at 30-degrees to create a more flattering effect on the art pieces. Especially ones encased in glass, avoiding direct light will reduce the glare reflected on the glass.

3. Consider the colour temperature of the light

You’ve heard of halogen and incandescent lights, but which exactly are best to light up fine art pieces? Incadescent lights are traditionally warmer in temperature which can affect how paintings are reflected, while halogen lights are best at replicating natural light. They emit a stronger heat but cooler temperature, similar to natural light, that cast a more flattering light on vibrant art pieces.

But keep in mind, both halogen and incandescent lights are also hotter which, over time, can affect the texture and quality of the artwork. In this case, using UV filters can help reduce the radiation and harsh light that comes from halogen and incandescent bulbs.

Also Read: Modern light designs to transform any room

4. Install LED lights

When it comes to artificial lighting, LED lights are quite efficient in illuminate the room effectively. They are up to 90-percent energy saving and have longer lifespan and softer light. Unlike halogen and incandescent light bulbs, they don’t emit infrared or ultraviolet rays that affect the qualities of delicate artwork and they cast a cooler temperature that light up fine art pieces nicely. But not just any LED light will do – to complement your art pieces with a flattering glow, a high-quality LED light source with a CRI (Color Rendering Index) level of 90 to 100 is needed to reveal the true colours of of the artworks themselves.

5. Picture lights help spotlight individual pieces

You might have seen picture lights in museums – they are those narrow, shaded beams with an arched stem that can either be mounted on the wall or attached to picture frames. They are great for spotlighting individual pieces, adding drama and creating a focal point. It is also convenient to mount in areas where larger light fixtures are unwanted or where electrical outlets are inconvenient, such as above the headboard in the bedroom. But one thing to remember is larger paintings will need larger beams and darker rooms will need brighterlights.

6. Using multiple lights for large canvases, collection or sculptures

Mounting large canvases help fill out the empty spaces on large walls. Alternatively, placing multiple artworks together can create a flow. In this case, using one light source may not be enough to highlight the entire piece or collection. Spotlights or recessed lights offer multiple light sources that can illuminate larger areas where artworks are placed together.

For sculptures, because of their three-dimensional structure, the best way to accentuate the intricate details, form and features is to place lightings behind and two angled lights above on each side. Avoid lighting sculptures from below, directly behind or directly in front which does no favours to your art display as those angles either cast too harsh of a spotlight or wash out and hides the details of your art pieces.

Also Read: Personalised Touch: Custom made décor and furniture you need for the home

Fine Art Asia returns to Hong Kong in a smaller edition but with NFTs

It’s been an enormously exciting season of art in Hong Kong – right from Art Basel in May to the Affordable Art Fair, Unscheduled, Digital Art Fair Asia Edition, the K11 Art Mall Design Fest to Happy Hours – there’s been an art fair for every collector and every budget in the SAR. With the return of the Fine Art Asia, one of the continent’s leading international art shows, it’s clear the Hong Kong art market is going strong despite the lack of international investors.

Check out the details of the latest, Fine Art Asia, for your weekend cultural fix.

Art and Antiques from East and West

This year’s Fine Art Asia is running from October 8–11, 2021 at its usual Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai location. An art and antique collector’s dream playground, this year the galleries – both local and from afar – are showcasing museum-quality fine art spanning 5,000 years of cultural history.

Despite the challenges presented by Covid, Fine Art Asia aims to deliver a tighter, younger, homegrown fair with a focus on contemporary artworks by Asian artists, masterpieces by UK photographer Emily Allchurch and 13th-century Yuan dynasty lacquer dishes amongst others. With travel and quarantine restrictions still in effect, overseas gallerists and collectors will largely be amiss. The fair has liaised with some international galleries to participate remotely with the help of trained local staff. The fair’s founder and director, Andy Hei firmly remains optimistic on the potential of the 66 Hong Kong-based artisanal talent to draw in both traffic and sales. More than 3,000 visitors turned up on day one, stormy weather not withstanding.

Also Read: Hong Kong’s creative scene is exploding – witness it at the Digital art Fair Asia Edition

Standout Galleries

The number of galleries stand around one-third less than during pre-Covid times, but that brings a much crisp, fresh energy to the event – an increasing number of local and modern artists are getting the opportunity to make a mark in one of the most prestigious art markets of the world. At the same time, online activities are vying for the interest of oversees collectors and aficionados.

Hong Kong’s Ora-Ora at booth C3, known as a catalyst for innovation and openness of expression, has already sold a few opulent, key sculptures by Spanish figurative artist Cristóbal Gabarrón. Crafted in polychromed fibreglass, the figurines are an artist’s interpretation of history and philosophy bringing a fresh outlook and bridging the cultural divide between the East and the West.

A visit to booth A8, Tanya Baxter Contemporary is a must for any collector or enthusiast. With established galleries in both London and Hong Kong since the last 25 years, Baxter’s post-war modern and contemporary art collection is eclectic, featuring global icons from Anish Kapoor to Andy Warhol, Ai Weiwei, Frank Auerbach, Mark Rothko, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Banksy, Marc Quinn, Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst. Emin’s You Were Everything, Damien Hirst’s beautiful work of art, the Cherry Blossoms series, a powerful take on the beauty of life and death are few highlight pieces. “Our gallery showcases some of the finest international contemporary works from art from New York to Monaco, Hong Kong and Paris”, says Tanya Baxter Contemporary, and we couldn’t agree more!

Rasti Chinese Art dedicated to inspiring audiences with their classical Asian antiquities and contemporary artwork on China’s past is at booth C10 for your artistic perusal.

Like most fairs of the season, Art Asia is going blockchain, offering a series of works from ancient Chinese bronze sculptures to modern works of art to a wider audience through NFTs (non-fungible tokens). Witness limited-edition collectors items in the flesh at the fair and bid for them online at OpenSea.

Fine Art Asia runs until Monday, October 11.

Also Read: Summer crushing on art fairs in Hong Kong

Asia’s first Digital Art Fair opens to public – Highlights ahead

Something is changing in the art world.

When Christie’s rang the auction bell earlier this year in March, Mike Winkelmann, an avant-garde digital artist better known as Beeple, became one of the top three most valuable living artists in the world overnight. A record-smashing NFT (non-fungible token) of his artwork, Everyday: The First 5,000 Days, sold for US$69.4 million. Immediately after this historic feat, Gillian Howard and Heiman Ng started a dialogue to get the inaugural edition of Asia’s first Digital Art Fair right here in Hong Kong.

Running from October 3 to 17 at the former flagship location of Topshop on Queen’s Road in Hong Kong, the Digital Art Fair Asia (DAFA) is Asia’s first physical art fair that showcases new media art, 360° immersive experiences and NFT crypto art. The two-week-long revolutionary contemporary art experience will feature artworks – both in physical and virtual format – by over 40 world-class local and international artists.

Whether you’re a fan of the modern high-end, intangible art trend or not, a visit to this fair is a surreal experience, one that shouldn’t be missed. Keep scrolling for the fair highlights:

The Venue

Set right in the middle of Queen’s Road, the Digital Art Fair comes alive in the 20,000 sq. ft venue. More than 200 pieces of impressive digital, NFT art, augmented reality and virtual reality experiences, digital photography, interactive installations, animation are on display.

Though Covid is no longer a looming threat but with travel restrictions still in place, majority of contemporary talent showcasing their work is local. And that’s a phenomenal opportunity for the homegrown artists, in the absence of star international players, this is terrific chance to drive multi-million-dollar sales.

The Zones

The impressive selection of art is split across five different zones, Immersive, Prestige, Pioneer, New Media and Virtual Reality Art Experience.

The Immersive Zone lets enthusiasts embark on an art journey through innovative technologies; Prestige Zone is where digital artworks by some of the most iconic artists like Andy Warhol and Jacky Tsai are being showcased; Pioneer Zone has been curated by Hong Kong-based photographer Derry Ainsworth and urban art specialist Hannah Smith to introduce artists who are at the forefront of the NFT art movement, expect to see works by the likes of Sean Foley, @surrealHK (Tommy Fung), Szabotage, and more. New Media Zone puts the spotlight on local talents including NFT sound artist and ‘Godfather’ of Chinese hip hop, MC Yan, and influential Hong Kong digital artist Henry Chu and Victor Wong, the world’s first artificial ink artist; Virtual Reality Art Experience Zone, is an alluring section where visitors can explore the first virtual museum by Paris-based collectors Sylvian and Dominique Lévy, set up in 2005 by dslollection.

Highlight Booths

Most of the artwork on display at the fair has been exclusively made for this event. Once created, NFT art is digitally traceable and cannot be duplicated or traded without permission.

One of the galleries making waves at DAFA is a complete 360° immersive gallery by Turkish new media artist Refik Anadol (born 1985). The fusion of art, technology, digital projections, VR, holography, amongst others bring to life a unique, experiential 15-minute artwork made by using over two million fascinating raw images by the International Space Station, the Hubble and MRO telescopes.

Titled Machine Hallucinations — Space : Metaverse – the mesmerizing visual treat explores our fascination with the intricate connections between obscurity and openness through both digital and physical mediums – a rare journey of space exploration, to go where humans cannot travel just yet, was the inspiration behind Anadol’s masterpiece. Commanding an impressive HK$ 5.5 million bid – the work is a visual and visceral treat.

Late iconic artist Andy Warhol’s first ‘selfie’ – titled ‘Untitled (Self-Portrait) – made on a floppy disk in 1985 is on display and up for auction at an undisclosed price.

Digital Art Fair Asia Edition 2021 is running from October 3 to October 17 at G/F, Asia Standard Tower, 59-65 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong.

Also Read: Art makes a comeback in Hong Kong after a year off site!

October Highlights: Exciting events and exhibitions for the month!

Calling on all art aficionados! This brings in a slew of exciting exhibitions, fairs and happenings you won’t want to miss. From highly anticipated and Asia’s first of its kind, Digital Art Fair to a guided trip down memory lane with the Heritage Fiesta cum Roving Exhibition 2021. Clear up your social calendar and mark these dates down to enjoy a month-filled of refreshingly new and nostalgically delightful art and culture events.

West Kowloon Cultural District Performing Arts Season
Until 31 Mar 2022
Anew season of top-class performing arts is in session, courtesy of the West Kowloon Cultural District. From now until the spring, audiences can enjoy awe-inspiring programmes of Cantonese opera, dance, theatre and music. Look out this month for 100% Hong Kong by Rimini Protokoll – in which 100 local performers take to the stage – and ground-breaking Chinese choreographer Gu Jiani’s Transition. Musicians of different disciplines, meanwhile, sound out at Lau Bak Livehouse every weekend.

Price: Varies
Location: Xiqu Centre / Freespace, West Kowloon Cultural District, Tsim Sha Tsui
For more information: westkowloon.hk

Digital Art Fair
3 – 17 Oct
The first-ever physical and virtual art fair in Hong Kong is destined to shake up the city’s art scene and excite a new generation of art collectors. Five art zones constructed within the exhibition venue will play host to 40 international and local artists, as well as those at the forefront of the NFT art movement, while also providing a platform to learn from experts in the fields of art, finance and technology. Connect with more than 200 digital artworks through interactive immersive experiences, virtual museums, blockchain NFTs, augmented reality pieces and a slew of other thrilling events.

Price: HK$205
Location: G/F, Asia Standard Tower, Central
For more information: digitalartfair.io

ReThink 2021
5-6 Oct
Now more than ever, society is prompted to live more sustainably, from embracing eco-friendly products to adopting plant-based diets and zero-waste lifestyles. If you have yet to jump on the green bandwagon, the ReThink conference co-organised by the Business Environment Council returns with more insights (and inspirations) on how to drive sustainable development in Hong Kong and approach the unique challenges facing the city. Global keynote speakers, international case studies, interviews, panels and expert workshops will enlighten over a high-impact, interactive two days.

Price: From HK$550
Location: Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre
For more information: rethink-event.com

Hiroaki Umeda: Indivisible Substance
6-8 Oct
Explore what it means to engage in art in a post-Covid world. Internationally acclaimed Japanese choreographer and avant-garde artist Hiroaki Umeda presents his latest work in progress. A virtual performance-art piece, Indivisible Substance draws from psychology and technological advancements such as AR and eye-tracking to challenge viewers to decide what is most relevant for their own body’s experience. The artist-audience interaction concludes with a post-performance discussion and Q&A session.

Price: HK$100
Location: Online
For more information: popticket.hk / westkowloon.hk

Circle x Raze – Health-Tech Revolution
6 – 19 Oct

Born out of a common vision of creating a safer future, Circle x Raze presents a #CombatCovid Collection in an exclusive pop-up store for only two weeks in Causeway Bay. The store highlights a combined selection of products that leverage cutting-edge technology to empower people to go about their day-to-day lives.

Price: Free Entry
Location: G/F, Kai Chiu Road, Hysan Place, Causeway Bay

Fine Art Fair
8 – 11 Oct

Fine Art Asia 2021, one of Asia’s leading international art fairs, returns to its usual Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre venue from 8 October to 11 October 2021. In a huge boost for the Hong Kong art scene, a flurry of art fairs have marked the summer despite the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fine Art Asia 2021 will deliver a vibrant, bubbling fair with a focus on homegrown talent. Several renowned names will be vying for your attention — prominent among them is Tanya Baxter Contemporary (booth A8) — based in both London and Hong Kong, the leading art consultancy and gallery comes with decades of artistic experience working in the Post-Modern, Modern British and Contemporary art markets and is celebrated for supporting emerging as well as mid-career artists.

Price: HK$120 via HK Ticketing
Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai
For more information: fineartasia.com

Outdoor Theatre, Robotics Workshop and more…
Until 31 Oct
The newly revitalised Central Market creates a ‘Playground for all’, hosting a series of screenings in its open courtyard, Oasis, as well as a slew of STEAM workshops for the kids, and more. From three thought-provoking features such as The Art of Forgery, a biopic of notorious German art forger Wolfgang Beltracchi, to robotics-building workshops, there’s really plenty to see and do at this newly opened venue.

Price: Free entry
Location: Central Market
For more information: centralmarket.hk

Heritage Fiesta cum Roving Exhibition 2021
Until 31 Oct
Take a stroll down memory lane and through the many historic landmarks of Hong Kong. The Heritage Fiesta covers 11 revitalised government-owned Grade I to III listed buildings, each of which will provide guided tours to visitors interested in rediscovering the city’s past architectural glories. From the Tai O Heritage Hotel and PMQ to Stone Houses, Haw Par Mansion and the former Fanling Magistracy, hours of fascinating exploring await history buffs. Exhibitions staged at the venues will run until the end of the year.

Price: Free entry
Location: Varies
For more information: heritage.gov.hk

Hong Kong Tramways World Record Celebration
Until 4 Nov
Art, leisure and shopping come together in one venue to honour Hong Kong Tramways’ Guinness World Record for the ‘Largest double-decker tram fleet in service’. Stationed at the Leica shop in Causeway Bay, the RecordDing Our Moments exhibcaptures the joy of riding on the beloved ‘Ding Ding’ through 15 works by local photographers. Join in to celebrate this iconic emblem of Hong Kong and its place in the city’s history. Arrival by tram is recommended…

Price: Free entry
Location: Leica Store, 12 Pak Sha Rd, Causeway Bay
For more information: leegardens.com.hk

Encounters Across Culture
Until 14 Nov
Through The House Collective, formed by a group of art- and design-conscious hotels located across China, comes Encounters Across Culture. Voyaging across four cities including Hong Kong, this biennial series showcases the diverse facets of each through an interactive performance of dance and design. Currently, The Upper House in Hong Kong and Chengdu’s The Temple House combine to give the stage to ballerina Hennes Yuen and hip-hop dancer Wan Siming from their respective cities.

Price: Free entry
Location: The Upper House
For more information: thehousecollective.com

When Form Matters
Until 10 Apr 2022
The pioneer of the New Ink Art Movement in Hong Kong, Lui Shou-kwan, comes under the spotlight in an exhibition tracking his artistic journey to Zen painting. The Hong Kong Museum of Art displays 41 paintings from its archives and 11 works loaned from the Art Museum of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Works by Lui’s peers and students are also presented in this long-running showcase, which pays tribute to the father of modern ink art in Hong Kong and his contribution to art education.

Price: Free entry
Location: Hong Kong Museum of Art
For more information: hk.art.museum

F11 Foto Museum’s Douglas So on creating space for photography in the city

With F11 Foto Museum and f22 foto space, corporate lawyer turned gallerist Douglas So has deliberately refocused his energy on framing the world more beautifully.

When did your love of photography begin?
I’ve liked photography since I was in secondary school, but it wasn’t until after graduating from university that I became more interested in understanding it and appreciating the works of prominent photographers. Somehow, photography speaks to me more than any other art form. Besides, looking at good photography has certainly improved my own skill with the camera.

I also enjoy history, so film photography – especially by Magnum photographers – before the age of the internet had a huge influence on my life and in shaping my perspective of a world that I did not known before. It was also through great old works of photography that I developed a strong passion for collecting vintage cameras, particularly Leica cameras, photographs and photobooks because many important photographers at that time used a Leica. This model of camera has an association with capturing some of the most monumental events in history and iconic images of the world.

You were a successful solicitor before becoming a gallerist. What was that like?
Studying law was my mother’s idea. Looking back, I’m glad that I followed her advice. Apart from earning the income necessary for me to pursue my many hobbies, my career as a lawyer helped me adopt an attitude that doesn’t let me look at things pessimistically, but rather be determined to find a creative solution to every issue, even when it seems there isn’t one.

I’ve never regretted spending so much of my time being a lawyer. In fact, I quite enjoyed it. I was first at Baker McKenzie to be a private practitioner before I moved to the Hong Kong Jockey Club. I successfully completed the IPO of some of the largest companies in China, such as China Eastern Airlines and PetroChina, when the country was just starting to tap into the capital markets and a lot of rules were still unwritten. It was a very exciting time, working with some of the greatest minds and constantly encountering things we hadn’t seen before, then creating solutions for them – there was something to learn everyday.

How did you become a gallery owner?
Although I miss my days as a corporate lawyer, after a few mega corporate finance transactions, I felt it was time to move on – perhaps to avoid the anti-climax that was bound to follow. So, in 2000 I moved in-house to the Hong Kong Jockey Club. It was a totally different experience from working in a corporate context, but I had the opportunity to learn something new once again. After 10 years, I became their executive director of charities, and then started to work on projects related to arts, culture and heritage conservation. I’m very thankful to the Jockey Club for that opportunity, which really opened my mind and broadened my horizons to try something new.

“Being a lawyer helped me not to look at things pessimistically, but to find a creative solution to every issue, even when it seems there isn’t one”

You founded the F11 Foto Museum in Happy Valley in 2014. How did that come about?
Given my love of photography, I’d always wanted to establish a place in Hong Kong where the public could enjoy photography all year round. After my legal practice, I spent more and more time doing charity work at the Hong Kong Jockey Club where I was involved with arts organisations. I think it naturally led me to founding a photography museum.

Knowing my love of old buildings, in 2012 my property agent mentioned that one in Happy Valley had suddenly became available. I wasn’t sure at the time whether F11 would be a gallery or a photo space, but I felt that it was such a wonderful and unique opportunity to weave the concept of art into a beautifully structured ’30s Art Deco-style heritage building. Although I had never run a gallery or museum, I thought to myself, “Let’s do something radical – something worth trying.” Two years later came the birth of F11 Foto Museum.

Needless to say, there were a lot of challenges along the way. But luckily, throughout it all, my team has been wonderful, helping me through exhibitions and liaising with different artists from around the world, as well as looking after the usual problems relating to managing old buildings. We are now moving into our seventh year, and I haven’t the slightest regret about the decision. I believe that following my passion, my heart, was truly important.

Can you share more about the role of the museum?
At F11, our mission comprises three elements. The first is to promote photography. Because of the beautiful structure of the building, we have been approached to let out the space for other purposes, but we decline each time because we want our brand and focus to be very clear. When people think about F11, we want them to think of photography.

Secondly, we want to promote heritage conservation. F11 is a museum, but it is also housed in a Grade three heritage building. We want to breathe an exciting new life into this 90-year-old building by revitalising it as an art and cultural space especially for the younger generation to experience what buildings were like when they were built a century ago.

Lastly, we aim to promote the concept of a private museum. The better-known museums in Hong Kong are public museums funded by the government, such as the Science Museum, the Museum of Art, and the Heritage Museum, but the city doesn’t have enough private museums. These offer a more diverse collection of different arts dedicated to specific themes. I thought running F11 successfully could provide a case study for other people interested in establishing private museums in Hong Kong and we can learn from one another.

Three years after the success of F11 Foto Museum, you established f22 foto space. Could you tell us more about your photo gallery?
We chose the names F11 and f22 because they relate to photography. ‘F’, to any photo lover, means the aperture of the lens – the larger the F-number, the greater the depth of field and the clearer the image. As a brand, it represents a philosophy to always go one step higher and deeper.

With f22, we wanted to go deeper into photography. It’s a gallery, but we wanted to try new things, too. Before its current location in The Peninsula Arcade, it was in Wan Chai and featured a cafe, bookshop and camera store, which was quite unlike F11. Photography is an all-embracing concept; it encompasses images, cameras, photobooks, video and other things. So, we thought that if we could have different spaces, we could offer a variety of attractions and cater to people with diverse tastes.

We also work with diverse artists. With F11, as a museum, we engage with more established talents. One of the reasons why we opened f22 was to work with younger contemporary artists to help promote and sell their work in Hong Kong and overseas.

“F11 was such a wonderful and unique opportunity to weave the concept of art into a beautifully structured ’30s Art Deco-style heritage building”

How can we nurture Hong Kong’s upcoming artistic talents, not just within photography but in the broader art field?
Younger artists need opportunities to work with galleries and museums to showcase their art and meet potential collectors and buyers. Especially with the internet, it’s increasingly challenging to grab the attention of viewers. So, having physical exhibitions is important to expose local artists to key institutions and curators both within Hong Kong and abroad.

Besides that, publications play an important role in establishing an artist. In spite of what is said about everything being available on the internet, it is definitely not the same experience as looking at a well-made photo book. Younger artists need to convince reputable publishers to publish their work and help promote them; it is challenging if their work cannot be exposed.

Do you see local photographers succeeding at an international level?
It is a pity that local photographers don’t often appear outside of Hong Kong, and many aren’t known to important international collectors or overseas museums. But at the same time, I often come across friends – collectors and curators – outside of the city who do show interest in Hong Kong photographers.

A couple of years ago at Paris Photo, the largest international fair dedicated to photography, I realised that I couldn’t recall a Hong Kong photographer ever being showcased. This led me to ask myself, “why”. But I didn’t want to just ask the question and not be part of the solution, which is why we are making plans to only exhibit works by local talents if we participate.

If Hong Kong photographers can appear in prestigious art and culture venues such as MoMA, the Guggenheim or the Tate Modern that would be a great achievement, and it should be a direction the city aims for as well.

Where does your passion for charity stem from and are there any organisations close to your heart?
I think that whatever the achievement of a person throughout his or her career, in the end you will be remembered by how much you have contributed back to the world. It is important to me that I not only pursue my own interests and career, but also use my skills and resources to make society a better place.

I spend more of my time doing volunteer work nowadays, and it is a very happy and fulfilling part of my life. In addition to being the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory Board, which advices the governent on heritage-related matters, I’ve been a board member of Unicef for the past eight years, helping them raise funds and awareness in relation to the interests of children. Especially in trying times like these, we look at how children and poor families are affected, then we contribute advice and legal knowledge to the organisation.
I’m also proud to be on the board of Food Angel. They collect food from supermarkets, restaurants, hotels and other donors across the city and distribute it to various kitchens where meals are cooked and then delivered to people in need, helping to channel all this food surplus while feeding the less fortunate.

Finally, what’s the biggest item on your bucket list?
I see both F11 Foto Museum and f22 foto space as my children, so I would really love to watch them grow happily and achieve their potential. For that, I know I have to work hard and never forget why I created these spaces and what I wish to achieve.

I would also love to continue to devote at least 50 percent of my time to the community until the day comes when I am no longer needed. Aside from the two NGOs I work with now, I would love to contribute in the art, culture and heritage space. These areas are most important and endearing to me and I hope to continue this passion for as long as I can.

Thank you.

Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio
Photos: Jack Law
Art Direction: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Videographer: Kingsley Lau
Venue: f22 foto space

Art Next Expo 2021: A close focus on over 70 Hong Kong artists

If there is anything the last two trying years have proved, it is that art plays an ever more crucial role in times of change and adversity, and that the global pandemic had not dampened the determination and motivation of artistic talents in Hong Kong, Asia’s rising capital of art. Rather, it has demonstrated the pursuit for the arts and the focus and heightened interests in local artists are more prevalent than ever.

Following a series of art months, the 2021 Art Next Expo arrives without hesitation to deliver its 4th Edition of Art next Expo and Art Next Artist Awards, an exciting 3-day affair that will provide a platform for artists, galleries, institutions and collectors to connect and be inspired.

“Although the pandemic has impacted global economy, the international art market continues to show strong signs of recovery, and we are particularly excited to see that more and more Hong Kong collectors are interested in the works of local artists”, said Ms. Judy Inn, Director of Art Next, “We believe art lovers will value the opportunity to meet the artists in person at the Expo.”

Set to open its doors on 8 October until 10 October at the Lanson Place, Causeway Bay, visitors can expect to delight in an immersive and interactive three-day art fair that will showcase over 70 artists in three series:

Art Next Artists Series:
Providing young and emerging talents of diverse styles, mediums and backgrounds an opportunity to compete for the Art Next Artist Awards, the winner of the competition will be granted a 3-month sponsored residence programme by Taipei Artist Village.

The winner will be selected by a panel of artists and art scholars, such Professor Tang Hoi Chiu, Professor TANG Hoi Chiu, Adjunct Professor of Academy of Visual Arts at The Baptist University of Hong Kong;; art collector and artist Mrs. Celcilia Cheung; renowned Chinese ink painter Mr. He Baili; renowned artist and curator Dr. Tang Ying Chi among many others.

Diversity Series:
Presenting the latest works by six embroidery artists that integrate diverse and contemporary motifs and themes into this traditional medium, exploring the limit of embroidery art as a form of art expression and fostering its appreciation by the public. This engaging exhibition is organized by Jun Enterprise, an organization dedicated to promoting embroidery art. Besides embroidery art, the Diversity Series also features contemporary ink works, geometric paintings, leather painting and artworks related to cheongsam (traditional Chinese costume).

Special Project Series – Next+ :
Next Mart is a fun thematic exhibition co-curated by artists Angel Hui Hoi Kiu and KC Wong to showcase 80+ pieces of pop art and trendy art toys, including paintings, sculptures, and lifestyle goods, from 11 artists, and installations of immersive innovative multimedia works by graduates of prestigious universities.

To top it off, Art Next has specially curated the works of a group of celebrated local artists working in a variety of mediums, such as Chui Pui Chee, Aries Wu Chun Yin, Chan Sai Lok, Victor Chu Chi Kuen and Chung Wai Lun, who will showcase their latest works to visitors of the Expo.

For more information, please visit www.artnextexpo.com

Andante presents a trio art exhibition of Italian flair and imaginative design

Lifestyle expert in design furniture, lighting and decor, Andante showcases the ostensible collections of three talented Italian contemporary artists during Art Month.

Gafencu_Magazine_Andante_Matteo Negri_Ho Le Montagne Negli Occhi — Matteo Negri’s Ho Le Montagne Negli Occhi. Photo by Tony Luk

Having ventured into the art world fairly recently, Andante celebrated Art Month with a tribute to the legacy of Italian design within its Design Showcase venue located in the heart of Central during Art Basel week on May 21. Featuring Milan-born Matteo Negri and Federico Casati, as well as Bali-based Alessio Ceruti in a riveting group exhibition elegantly staged within the 4,000sq.ft emporium in which guests were invited to explore the allusive, and often thought provoking, collections of pictorial and sculptural pieces on display.

Gafencu_magazine_Andante presents a trio art exhibition of Italian flair and imaginative design_matteo_Negri_l'ego — Matteo Negri’s L’ego. Photo by Tony Luk

Presenting pieces of Matteo Negri’s sculptural works from his L’Ego (Ego) series as well as pictorials from his Ho Le Montagne Negli Occhi (I have the mountains in my eyes) series. While the former, a Lego-shaped sculptural collection, revisits the inherent childlike ambitions of exploring creativity and individuality, the latter expresses the architectural type and impulses deriving from natural data through mixed-media pictorial displays.

Gafencu_magazine_art_Alessio Ceruti_a_new_shape — *A New Shape by Alessio Ceruti.* Photo by Tony Luk

Staying with sculptural creations, Alessio Ceruti’s newest project A New Shape opens eyes to new and compelling visions of the world around us by inserting everyday objects into different contexts – transforming them into unrecognizable shapes. A visual metaphor of the inevitable change over time and the heartening embrace of recreating new experiences and memories.

gafencu_magazine_andante_exhibition_rael_apparante_Federico Casati_hong_kong_art — *Reale-Apparente* by Federico Casati. Photo by Tony Luk

Moving towards the captivating works of Federico Casati, the play of light and shadows in his Reale-Apparente (Real-Apparent) and Combinaziaoni (Combinations) series challenges the viewer’s perception of reality and the ambiguity of everyday experiences. The allusive pictorial presentations of geometries was constructed by superimposing a thin brass sheet on a monochrome background, of either the same colour or a tonal variation, in a variable distance to create a three-dimensional effect.

Gafencu_magazine_Andante presents a trio art exhibition of Italian flair and imaginative design — Andante’s The Design Showcase

The exhibition will continue to run until 30 June 2021 at The Design Showcase, Andante Hong Kong. Shop D, G/F, 11 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong.

For more information, please visit www.andante.com.hk

Art Basel Hong Kong 2021: What to expect at the upcoming art fair

Art Basel Hong Kong returns after a year off site. Given the on-going travel restrictions and social distancing measures, the city’s premier international art fair Art Basel Hong Kong is introducing a new hybrid format to the 2021 event. In a wholly new hybrid-format for the city’s biggest annual art fair, the programme will launch a combination its digital platform Art Basel Live: Hong Kong to complement its physical fair, presenting a unique overview of the diverse art scenes from around the world with a close focus on historical and experimental works of art in various mediums by both established and emerging artists and galleries. The art fair, which will run between 21 to 23 May will be the fair’s first major exhibition since the pandemic in 2019.

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An impressive line up of galleries
Art Basel Hong Kong 2021 will feature 104 participating galleries from 23 countries from around the world. The main sector will present 86 galleries with a close focus on experimental works. For the 56 international galleries that could not attend the fair due to travel restrictions, satellite booths staffed with a local representative appointed by Art Basel have been set up to amplify the visibility of its partnering international exhibitors.

A new hybrid format
The hybrid format of Art Basel Hong Kong 2021 will include standalone as well as shared booths at its usual location at the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, while its digital platform titled Art Basel Live: Hong Kong will give virtual viewers access to Online Viewing Rooms, a program of special events, live-streamed tours, broadcasts and virtual walkthroughs, bringing audiences from around the world together.

Exclusive online content
The specially launched Art Basel Live: Hong Kong will highlight exclusive content for its online viewers, from live broadcasts featuring Takashi Murakami, Su Xiaobai, Theaster Gates, and collector Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, as well as exciting programmes such as unveiling rare artworks being taken out of their crates, and live-streamed tours of other cultural and art events around Hong Kong. Among the list of online programmes to look out for is the ‘The Art Market 2021: China Focus’, which will cover the most recent developments in China, the world’s second-biggest art market.

Where to go
For the physical event, the Art Basel exhibition will be held in its usual location at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from 21 to 23 May, while a daily broadcast shot at from the venue will be live-streamed on Art Basel’s website and Facebook page to its global audience every day at 8pm, as well as on Chinese platforms Yitiao and Zai Art. Ticketing price start from HK$200.

Social distancing measures
Visitors of the in-person of the Art Basel fair may have to wait in line for a given amount of time as the venue will be applying social distancing measures, limiting to a controlled number of visitors within the hall at any given time. Upon entering, the exhibition hall, all visitors are expected to scan the event’s QR code on the LeaveHomeSafe app or use an electronic registration form to record details of all visitors’ attendance.

All images courtesy of Art Basel.

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