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Header images courtesy of Tai Kwun
Winter is coming to an end, and while we are waiting for the first dewdrops of spring to take over from the chilling winds, the welcoming warmth of art galleries invites us in for a visit. Here are five must-see art shows happening around Hong Kong this February.
Well-known for his documentation of contemporary life, Zhang Enli is presenting his new solo exhibition, “Faces,” at Hauser & Wirth. The pieces on display, characterised by loose yet expressive brushwork, explore the essence and symbolism of the human spirit, as well as personal concerns and recollections inspired by literature. Rather than representing his subjects’ physical form, the artist interacts with their soul and what symbolises it. Check out Zhang’s diverse range of works, brought to life over the past three decades, for a distinctly abstract look at the human essence.
When: Now till 9 March
Where: Hauser & Wirth, 8 Queen’s Road Central, Central
“Léon Wuidar” is the titular artist’s first solo exhibition in Asia, featuring prominent works created throughout his six-decades-long career. This collection highlights Wuidar’s ability to combine meticulous accuracy and simplicity without undermining expressiveness, demonstrating the artist’s understanding of composition, colour, and lines. Admire Wuidar’s paintings, as well as never-before-seen works on paper from the 1990s, on show at White Cube.
When: Now till 16 March
Where: White Cube Hong Kong, 50 Connaught Road Central, Central
Stefan Irvine’s solo exhibition, “Abandoned Villages of Hong Kong,” breathes new life into the overgrown foliage and crumbling façades of the city’s neglected settlements. Irvine’s photographs capture the eerie beauty that lingers within the abandoned houses, which residents likely left behind in search of better opportunities abroad, to be closer to urban areas for their livelihood, or due to an ageing population. The timeless appeal of the abandoned houses has been immortalised through the lens. This exhibition serves as a platform for contemplation on the transience of existence, as well as a reminder of both the fleeting nature of life and the endurance of Hongkongers.
When: Now till 25 February
Where: Blue Lotus Gallery, 28 Pound Lane, Tai Ping Shan, Sheung Wan
Challenging extractive economies, “Green Snake: Women-Centred Ecologies” is an exhibition that’s focused on themes such as care and interrelationships, questioning the way nature is viewed as an exploitable resource in this day and age. The exhibition spans multiple rooms and features commissioned works of over 30 established and upcoming artists, underlining the connections between diverse cosmological systems and women-centred knowledge. Through alternative narratives that celebrate the generative force of nature and the wisdom of women in history, “Green Snake” explores the relationship between humans and the natural world.
When: Now till 1 April
Where: 1/F, JC Contemporary & F Hall, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central
An homage to Wang Mengsha and her fusion of traditional and contemporary art, “Whispering Blossoms” showcases the artist’s innovative pieces that were inspired by the ancient xieyi (寫意; se2 ji3) painting style, characterised by simple brush strokes and symbols of freedom. In her work, daily elements are seamlessly blended with natural motifs, and her use of vivid colours offer a visually and symbolically rich perspective. Through her art, Wang invites visitors into a world of childlike dreams, where imagination and wonder remain prominent and adult worries cease to exist.
When: Now till 16 March
Where: Alisan Fine Arts, 21/F, Lyndhurst Tower, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Ashley has always been captivated by the city and how its bustling heart coexists with flora and fauna. While writing is her passion, you might also find her relaxing with a cosy video game, feeding horses at a local riding school, or checking out climbing gyms in the city.
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