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Hong Kong-born, Shanghai based, art veteran Simon Ma shares his vision of creating harmony through art with his recent travelling Drago Cavallo Exhibition
From a young age, you painted under the guidance of Chinese master Fan Tzu Teng. How did that shape you? 
I was lucky to have him inspire me, and not just in painting. He also inspired me to become a good person. We believed that whatever you paint first comes from your heart, then flows through your hands – manifesting how we think and how we look at the world.
“Harmonise” is a word he always reminded me of. To harmonise with nature and with people, regardless of their background, whether they are rich or poor. This way, you allow yourself to view the world from all angles, looking at everyone and every situation from the top down, left to right and from front to back as well. He was my master in matters of the mind, too – an extremely kind and an open person, he believed that we should do charity work, with a pure heart – that is what would help one be a good painter.
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For a time, you had your own company in Shanghai, Ma Design. What propelled you to make the transition from architect and urban planner to artist?
I started painting when I was seven years old, and I played music when I was 13 years old. After that, I attended boarding school in the UK and then studied architecture and urban planning at University College of London.
It’s hard being an architect. I prefer being an artist because I don’t have to just work for the client. As an artist, I can actually create anything I like, without limitations or boundaries. I started sculpting and exhibiting my work to the public in various locations around the world. To me, this is the more interesting part of art and creation, it is much more meaningful to me [than architecture. I put them there like an architecture but in miniature forms.
You recently launched a large touring artistic installation, Drago Cavallo, in conjunction with the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Could you tell us more about this?
Winfried (Engelbrecht-Bresges), the CEO of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, called me and wanted me to come back to Hong Kong to do the Drago Cavallo – Travel Around HK exhibition as part of the SAR’s 25th anniversary.
We thought the city needed new energy, something to bring everyone in harmony. The mythical dragon horse (‘drago cavallo’ in Italian) is the spirit of China – one of the eight mythical beasts that symbolises inspiration; and I think people all over the world like horses.
I actually created these lovable Drago Cavallos during Covid-19 to give people hope and new energy. So, we brought back 10,000 Drago Cavallos and are planning on displaying a 25-metre-high Drago Cavallo next year.
I’m working very hard on this, trying to harmonise Hong Kong society – in different districts and also in schools, where students can paint Drago Cavallo and understand the spirit of the two animals (dragon and horse). The cool thing about this project is that it will harmonise society through art.
The Jockey Club has also been very supportive. We are also hosting a competition, and asking everyone to join the competition and try to set up one Drago Cavallo for each district.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-68096 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ACK9767_p-e1664802337739.jpg" alt="" width="466" height="699" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ACK9767_p-e1664802337739.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ACK9767_p-e1664802337739-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
<blockquote>
&#8220;I prefer being an artist because you can actually create anything you like, with no limitations, no boundaries. This is much more meaningful to me [than architecture]”
</blockquote>
You have a strong affinity with horses. Could you share with us why that is? 
The horse is the most beautiful animal. They are energetic, international and always moving forward. They never complain though they can have a temper, too; when they want to, they just go. I see myself as somewhat of a horse whisperer. I go around the world, to places like Mongolia, to see horses. And when I find them, they are like my friends. You have to build a friendship with horses before you can paint them. I paint from inside them; I’m painting their vision.
You divide your time between your Hong Kong studio in Wong Chuk Hang and Shanghai. What differences have you observed between the two major cities? 
I have been in China for 23 years. Shanghai is a very fast-growing city and full of energy. Whereas Hong Kong has stopped for the past three or four years; it’s actually becoming less international. If you look at the government in Shanghai and the local community, there is such a respect for art and its artists. But looking at Hong Kong, one might question how many good artists there are in the city. Shanghai, on the other hand, has so many ‘West Kowloon’s, not just one. And there are 20 or 30 more museums as well.
But Shanghai is not an easy place to survive in as an artist. You have to be very good at what you do, you have to be really good with people, and you have to be really good with the market as well. You have to be ahead of the market rather than follow it. We change because of our environment, but the environment doesn’t change because of us.
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You have collaborated successfully as an artistic designer with international brands, such as Porsche and Ferrari. How did that come about? 
I think these international luxury brands are looking for a Chinese artist who can connect with people internationally and locally. I understand both cultures – especially the Italian mindset, and I can instil Chinese art into their luxurious products harmoniously; it goes beyond just mixing two things together.
You’re also pretty active on Instagram. What value does social media give you as an artist? 
I am encouraging my team to be active on all social media platforms because it’s better to share and let more people appreciate your art. Why keep art to yourself? Open up and let people see it.
<blockquote>
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-68099 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ACK9916_p-e1664790444742.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="1050" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ACK9916_p-e1664790444742.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ACK9916_p-e1664790444742-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ACK9916_p-e1664790444742-600x900.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /> 
“I am like the horse whisperer. I go around the world, to places like Mongolia, to see horses. And when I find them, they are like my friends. I’m painting their vision”
</blockquote>
If you could go back in time and meet anyone from the past, who would it be? 
My auntie, who passed away four years ago. She gave me my name ‘Simon’. And also, my master, Fan Tzu Teng. I would pay a million dollars to have dinner with them again, because as you get older, you realise the number of people you love gets less and less. Fan Tzu Teng is like my father. He had no son, so I was like a son to him. When I approached his body at his funeral, I knelt down; I knelt all the way to his body. There were a few hundred people there and they all stood up. This is the highest respect I could give to my teacher.
When do you get your best ideas? 
I always get my best ideas when I’m having a shower. I feel light, like I’m being purified by water – and all my spirituality emerges.
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Do you still play music? 
I love music. I still have my band in China. I used to write music before I got too busy. I’m a left-handed drummer (like Phil Collins) as well as a singer. If you ever hear me sing, you’d be surprised. Music is my life. It helps to create good art.
Thank you.
&nbsp;
(Interview by: Robert Murry; Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma;&nbsp;Videographer: Jackie Chan; Venue: Simon Ma Gallery)
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Art veteran Simon Ma’s vision of creating harmony through art

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In line with the season for contemporary arts, Time to Give is a collaborative charity art auction between renowned photographer and artist Robert Lam and the Sheen Hok Charitable Foundation.
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67585" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-8.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong (8)" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-8.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-8-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-8-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-8-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-8-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
Hosted by Robert Lam at his eclectic art-filled office-cum-showroom, about 30 vibrant contemporary artworks will be exhibited throughout the venue for the charity art auction organised by Sheen Hok Charitable Foundation. It will be a rare glimpse into the imaginative world of Robert Lam and his artistic voyage.&nbsp;
<figure id="attachment_67581" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67581" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67581" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-4.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong (4)" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-4.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-4-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-4-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-4-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-4-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67581" class="wp-caption-text">No. 2. Title: Eve apple (915x1220mm)</figcaption></figure>
Unlike the stylistic photography of Lam’s earlier works, he now delves into combining photo technique and digital system. The idea behind the collection is to combine basic art theory with numeric digital technique, and merging photography and painting together in exploring colours and movements.
<figure id="attachment_67586" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67586" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67586" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67586" class="wp-caption-text">Robert Lam next to art piece No. 1. Title: Sunday (1210x1510mm)</figcaption></figure>
“The opportunity was a very nice surprise&#8221;, Lam says. A few months ago, after having created several pieces within the collection, Lam was looking for someone to give the artworks to. &#8220;Coincidentally, I met with Professor Alice Chiu, a very good friend of mine, and we had started to discuss doing collaborative work for her Sheen Hok Charity Foundation. The title of the charity art auction is Time to Give and I am prepared to give”, explains Lam.&nbsp;
<figure id="attachment_67584" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67584" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67584" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-7.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong (7)" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-7.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-7-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-7-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-7-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-7-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67584" class="wp-caption-text">No.13. Title: Famous Singer (1200x900mm)</figcaption></figure>
The charity art auction will welcome a community of star-studded guests and the city’s creme dela creme of the high society art lovers, including Professor Chiu’s personal friends and supporters of the Sheen Hok Charitable Foundation.
<figure id="attachment_67582" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67582" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67582" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-5.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong (5)" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-5.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-5-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-5-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-5-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-5-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67582" class="wp-caption-text">No. 5. Title: Flower Dance (915x1220mm)</figcaption></figure>
The art pieces are specifically for the charity art auction Time to Give. The money raised will go to Sheen Hok Charitable Foundation to help Hong Kong special education students and their families&nbsp;under the The Sheen Hok Rising Sun Project.
<figure id="attachment_67583" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67583" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67583" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-6.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong (6)" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-6.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-6-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-6-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-6-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-6-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67583" class="wp-caption-text">No.14. Title: Art Deco (915x1220mm)</figcaption></figure>
“I was so excited and happy when I heard that Robert was looking to give his art pieces to someone. I really needed the support from different sectors, companies and friends. In fact, some of my friends have been supporting me to help the youth in need. In addition to providing medical assistance, I hope to improve them in education and art and increase professional training, so that they will have skills to improve family incomes in the future. I think this is the right way and right direction for our foundation to contribute to society”, says Professor Chiu. &#8220;There are many people who require our help that I believe charity services will never end. I will not consider stopping, and it will never be enough.&#8221;
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-67587" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-gafencu.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-gafencu" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-gafencu.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-gafencu-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-gafencu-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-gafencu-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-gafencu-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" />
The private viewing will be held at the Robert Lam Colour &#8211; Photobition on 16 &amp; 17 August 2022. All 30 art pieces within the collection will then go to auction the following day on 18 August.&nbsp;
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For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.sheenhok.org">www.sheenhok.org</a>

About Robert Lam&nbsp;
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<figure id="attachment_67580" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67580" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67580" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-3.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong (3)" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-3.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-3-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-3-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-3-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-3-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67580" class="wp-caption-text">Robert Lam, Photographer and contemporary artist</figcaption></figure>
Robert Lam has had a prolific career in fashion photography with some of Hong Kong’s most famous celebrities, as well as a few selective international stars. He is now a successful entrepreneur and founder of major printing studio RobertLam Color &#8211; Photobition. He spends his leisure time exploring the combination of photography, digital art and oil painting, while still enjoying an active lifestyle in music, gastronomy and exercise.&nbsp;
About&nbsp;Sheen Hok Charitable Foundation
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<figure id="attachment_67579" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67579" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67579" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-2.png" alt="art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong (2)" width="466" height="600" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-2.png 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-2-200x258.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-2-217x280.png 217w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-2-120x155.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong-2-400x515.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67579" class="wp-caption-text">Professor Alice, Chiu Tsang Hok Wan, Founder of Sheen Hok Charitable Foundation</figcaption></figure>
Established in 1994 by Professor Alice, Chiu Tsang Hok Wan, Sheen Hok Charitable Foundation has been helping people in need by providing medical and educational support, as well as broadening her charitable services to different areas including Amblyopia treatment for children in China, health care services for the elderly, cleft lip and palate surgery, and more. The Sheen Hok Rising Sun Project serves Hong Kong&#8217;s special education children born in low-income familied with free treatment to reduce economic pressure and treatment waiting time.

charity-art-auction-fundraiser-timetogive-robertlam-alicechiu-sheenhokcharitablefoundation-hongkong

Time to Give: A charity art auction by Robert Lam and Sheen Hok Charitable Foundation

These days, it seems that sneakers carry more cultural weight than even the once most desirable and feted brand names. With luxury brands such as Loewe, Versace and Alexander McQueen now joining the line up of high-end sneakers and collaborations between the luxury world and the biggest name in sports footwear creating a cult following. Yes, we too are coveting the recent Gucci-Adidas and -Balenciaga tie-in.
<figure id="attachment_67004" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67004" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67004" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-4.png" alt="sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong (4)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-4.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-4-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-4-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-4-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-4-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-4-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-4-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67004" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of 199xCustom</figcaption></figure>
This generation of footwear aficionados might not be able to name a single Basquiat or Warhol masterpiece but they will tell you in a heartbeat how much a pair of Yeezy sneakers will resell for. The sub-culture of sneaker collection has risen to such heights that its fandom could possibly rival even Carrie Bradshaw’s undying love of collecting designer heels.
But as the hype of sneaker collection continue to rise, it’s no longer enough to get the rarest or most trend-setting pair of kicks. These days, customised sneakers are all the rage. Creatively conceptualised to reflect the wearer’s taste and style, custom-designed sneakers go above and beyond the range of what retail stores can offer. These unique creations give its wearers a personalised pair of sneakers that they can proudly walk in and call their own.
<figure id="attachment_67002" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67002" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67002" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-2.png" alt="sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong (2)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-2.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-2-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-2-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-2-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-2-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-2-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-2-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67002" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of 199xCustom</figcaption></figure>
Bridging the gap between designer shoes and bespoke footwear are custom sneaker designers. These artists turns run-of-the-mill canvas footwear into one-of-a-kind custom sneakers. Coming from a background in fine arts, graphic design and fashion design, the diversity of sneaker customisers add a youthful and modern style that many younger generations seek. Out of the box and statement-bearing, these custom sneaker designers are hand-drawn and -painted, each pair is matched to the style and personality of the customer, making no two designs ever alike – an appealing factor that many fashion enthusiasts and shoe collectors love. 
Read on as Gafencu spotlights the sneaker revolutionaries in Hong Kong to turn to for your bespoke sneaker fix.
Creative Kicks
<figure id="attachment_67009" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67009" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67009" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom.png" alt="sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-199xcustom-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67009" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of 199xCustom</figcaption></figure>
Tapping into the niche market is Hong Kong sneaker illustrator 199xCustom, who specialises in animation characters and cartoons – particularly Japanese anime. She first tried her hand at sneaker customisation after a disappointing search for a design that was not available in the market. She subsequently turned to her passion for drawing to create her own, eventually turning fan art creations into an artistic interpretation of sneaker customisation.
“There are actually several different categories of customisation. I specialise in painting and using an airbrush, which generally requires a wide range of brushes, airbrushes, and pigments”, explains the artist.
<figure id="attachment_67007" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67007" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67007" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-7.png" alt="sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong (7)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-7.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-7-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-7-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-7-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-7-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-7-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-7-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67007" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of 199xCustom</figcaption></figure>
Anime characters and cartoons account for a large part of her work because it is a unique market not available at a retail level. However, her artistic flare and edgy style stretches beyond animation. Her original designs also range from incorporating elements of Japanese fine art, like ukiyo-e, to create an embroidered dragon and tiger pattern on the mesh body of a Yeezy 350 sneaker.
A pair of customised sneakers could cost anywhere from hundreds to thousands of Hong Kong dollars. Depending on the complexity of each design, the tools and materials required – which often cost a few hundred Hong Kong dollars to purchase as well, (and ultimately) the time it takes to complete each project, prices can vary but the result will, more often than not, reflect in quality and creativity.
Back in Time
<figure id="attachment_67005" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67005" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67005" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-5.png" alt="sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong (5)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-5.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-5-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-5-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-5-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-5-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-5-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-5-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67005" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of Simple Union</figcaption></figure>
However, the service of sneaker customising isn’t simply picking up a paintbrush and stenciling a printout. It takes, creativity, skill and passion for art and the process it takes to create a unique concept that will set it apart from everything else already on the market. Other sneaker customisers such as Simple Union, a handcraft brand that customises shoes and other accessories, go beyond just painting and airbrushing. “‘Enjoy Simplicity, Enjoy Life’ is the motto the brand follows’’, says artist and founder FK.
<figure id="attachment_67006" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67006" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67006" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-6.png" alt="sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong (6)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-6.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-6-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-6-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-6-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-6-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-6-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-6-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67006" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of 199xCustom</figcaption></figure>
Putting a close focus on the materials is key to Simple Union’s unique designs, they combine traditional culture and craftsmanship with quality materials. The brand is also known for using Italian leather and rare fabrics from Japan, such as old Japanese Katazome, an ancient method of fabric dying, weaving and stenciling – often flowers and bird motifs – that dates back to the Meiji era of the late 1800s.
<figure id="attachment_67013" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67013" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67013" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union.png" alt="sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-simple-union-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67013" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of Simple Union</figcaption></figure>
Each design is an original concept that adds a bespoke touch that off-the-rack shoes can’t offer. But Simple Union also accepts commissions by customers, if both the artist’s style and customer’s taste are a good match. On some occasions, the brand would be approached to customise products for other brands and stores as part of a workshop experience or event.
Sustainable Spirit
<figure id="attachment_67012" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67012" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67012" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo.png" alt="sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-kibo-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67012" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of K!bo</figcaption></figure>
Another brand that puts materials on the forefront of their products is pioneering sustainable sneaker brand K!BO. “The name K!BO means hope in Japanese”, says Natalie Chow, co-founder of the Hong Kong sustainable sneaker brand.
Adding a new line of products to their range, the footwear brand will be offering exciting new selections of customised sneakers to thrill fashionistas throughout summer. They will provide a range of limited-edition designs, as well as exciting customisation options that will allow customers the liberty to add their own touch of style to their bespoke footwear.
<figure id="attachment_67011" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-67011" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-67011" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-gafencu-kibo.png" alt="Photo courtesy of K!bo" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-gafencu-kibo.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-gafencu-kibo-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-gafencu-kibo-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-gafencu-kibo-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-gafencu-kibo-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-gafencu-kibo-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/sneaker-revolution-custom-sneaker-artist-hongkong-gafencu-kibo-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-67011" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of K!bo</figcaption></figure>
Expected to start with a HK$1280 price tag, the initial stages of the new line of products will offer customised pre-order options that will allow customers to get closely involved in the design process, such as including unique and fun patterns and selecting recycled leather with graphic prints, as a way to personalise their #GuiltFreeKicks to show off this summer.
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(Text: Roberliza Eugenio, Photos courtesy of 199xCustom, Simple Union and K!bo)

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Sneaker Revolution: Spotlighting Hong Kong’s custom sneaker artists

Dipping into a swirl of gentle colours, Sylvia So loses herself in a canvas of tint, sensation and memory. Inspired by the mystical work of established contemporary artist Christopher Ku, she prepares for her first solo exhibition in two years. After a tumultuous period of disruption, the homegrown artist is eager to showcase her distinct abstract works that leave interpretation to eye of the beholder. In a city rife with powerful art-world players, elite collectors and snooty aficionados, it is routine for emerging artists from Europe and the United States to clinch multimillion-dollar sales at exhibitions, while only a handful of galleries promote true local talent like Sylvia So.
<figure id="attachment_63818" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-63818" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-63818 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-3.png" alt="Vibrant City_ Hong Kong's growing art scene gafencu (3)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-3.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-3-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-3-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-3-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-3-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-3-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-3-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-63818" class="wp-caption-text">(In this photo: Artist Sylvia So)</figcaption></figure>
Hong Kong’s reputation as the capital of kitsch has faded, but until a few decades ago there was a dearth of culture. The city was never known for art. Luxury shopping, cheap and delicious food, a raging night life – yes, but art? No. Not unless you count the antiques pedalled in dilapidated shops as art. With intermittent fairs, just the occasional show-stopping cultural event and galleries few and far between, artists didn’t really have a strong presence or say. Having historically existed in the artistic shadows of New York, London and Paris, the Hong Kong art scene has expanded and evolved since Art Basel’s arrival in 2013.&nbsp;
<figure id="attachment_63820" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-63820" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-63820 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-5.png" alt="Vibrant City_ Hong Kong's growing art scene gafencu (5)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-5.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-5-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-5-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-5-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-5-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-5-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-5-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-63820" class="wp-caption-text">(Image courtesy of Art Basel 2021)</figcaption></figure>
Art Fairs Roster
The past two years have been rough for the art sector – jolted first by pro-democracy protests, then Covid-19 – with shuttered galleries, wiped-out cultural fairs and calamitous sales tolling the bells of impending gloom. However, the diverse roster of blockbuster fairs gracing the city last summer – Art Basel, Affordable Art, Unscheduled, Fine Art Asia, Art Next Expo – was a resounding endorsement of the market’s commanding return.
<figure id="attachment_63826" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-63826" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-63826 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu.png" alt="Vibrant City_ Hong Kong's growing art scene gafencu" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-63826" class="wp-caption-text">(Image courtesy of Art Basel 2021)</figcaption></figure>
Traditionally, art follows money and with Hong Kong home to the world’s highest concentration of high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals, an eastward shift in the global cultural axis is apparent. The findings of London-based art market-research firm ArtTactic are telling: Hong Kong now sits atop London as the second-biggest contemporary art-auction market in the world, tailing right behind New York. Even when the world was hurting from the pandemic during the first eight months of 2020, Hong Kong’s art-market share spiked to 26-percent from 20-percent in 2019, with US$314.6 million in sales, compared to London’s US$303.5 million. Kevin Ching, who served as Sotheby Asia’s CEO for 15 years before stepping down last April, feels there is “so much pent-up yearning and hunger for art in Hong Kong”.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/fine-art-asia-returns-to-hong-kong/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fine Art Asia returns to Hong Kong with NFTs</a>
<figure id="attachment_63824" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-63824" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-63824 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-9.png" alt="Vibrant City_ Hong Kong's growing art scene gafencu (9)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-9.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-9-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-9-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-9-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-9-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-9-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-9-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-63824" class="wp-caption-text">(Image courtesy of M+ Museum)</figcaption></figure>
Changing the Conversation
From Tai Kwun in the heart of the city to the fringes of new hub for creativity Wong Chuk Hang, galleries are flourishing. The growing interest is most visibly manifested by the high-ceilinged presence of art behemoths Gagosian Gallery, White Cube and Lehmann Maupin in the city. Their goal of mounting “museum-quality exhibitions” is a fortuitous sign that Hong Kong is clearly worth the investment.
Until a few years ago, the museum scene was woefully lacking, but here too the tide has turned. The opening of M+ is a big stride towards making the city a cultural heavyweight and remedying its reputation in art circles as being overly commercial. At 700,000 square feet, the West Kowloon stronghold is one of the largest contemporary art museums in the world, double the size of London’s Tate Modern and rivalling New York’s Museum of Modern Art – a place where you can go and see great art without someone putting a price tag to it.
<figure id="attachment_63825" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-63825" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-63825 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-10.png" alt="Vibrant City_ Hong Kong's growing art scene gafencu (10)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-10.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-10-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-10-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-10-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-10-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-10-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-10-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-63825" class="wp-caption-text">(Image courtesy of M+ Museum)</figcaption></figure>
One of the main restraints on homegrown talent has been the astronomical gallery rentals in a notoriously space-squeezed city. But with the opening of art-dedicated areas like the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts, H Queen’s, PMQ, West Kowloon Cultural District and even the newly repurposed Central Market allow the burgeoning local art scene to breathe. Their diverse programme and local-artist-only exhibitions are helping the city shed its status of cultural sterility.
Excitement is high, artists like Sylvia So are optimistic. “There is a lot of potential here,” she affirms. Hong Kong is one of the few global cities in the world that is pumping in money for cultural development. “Undeniably the new art environment and government policies will greatly nurture homegrown talent.”&nbsp;
<blockquote>
“There is so much pent-up yearning and hunger for art in Hong Kong”
</blockquote>
Local Laurels
While the blight of Covid has been cataclysmic, it has spurred a refreshing change. Travel restrictions and long quarantine meant that a majority of global artists were absent from this year’s fairs. Art Basel and Affordable Art Fair chose to shine a spotlight on local artists instead. The latter’s director, Regina Zhang Minzi, observed, “Contrary to the previous seven years when 80-percent of [participating] galleries were from oversees, in 2021 it was the other way round.”
As a result, budding artists like young graduate Chau Chung-man and 24-year-old Mandy Ma, winner of the Fresh Trends Art Graduates Joint Exhibition award in 2019, enjoyed a pivotal year, showcasing their work in the same venue as celebrated Western talent like David Farrant.&nbsp;
<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-63821 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-6.png" alt="Vibrant City_ Hong Kong's growing art scene gafencu (6)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-6.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-6-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-6-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-6-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-6-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-6-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vibrant-City_-Hong-Kongs-growing-art-scene-gafencu-6-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" />
Street Scene
Visual noise or genius born in the streets – no matter which side of the graffiti debate you are on, there is no denying the pedigree of street art. Non-profits like HKwalls, co-founded by former architect Jason Dembski in 2014, are driving forces encouraging the growth of murals through annual street-art festivals and competitions. An increasing number of graffiti artists like Bao Ho, Xeme and Catherine Grossrieder are taking to the walls to pour out their creativity and, in so doing, breathe new life into drab districts. Sometimes inspiring, often enigmatic and undoubtedly challenging, Hong Kong art is coming alive like never before.
Compared to established masters like Paris, Venice, London or New York, we may be just dabbing our brushes, but art world mainstays agree that a city often critiqued for being a superficial, commercial jungle is taking conscious steps to develop cultural depth. And it’s an exciting sight to behold.&nbsp;
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/artspace-k-spotlighting-contemporary-artists/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Artspace K: Celebrating and spotlighting contemporary artists in style</a>
(Text: Nikita Mishra)

Vibrant City Hong Kong's growing art scene gafencu

Vibrant City: Hong Kong’s growing art scene

Hong Kong&#8217;s very own home-grown watch retailer, <a href="https://www.orientalwatch.com/owh/main.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oriental Watch Company</a>, celebrates its 60th anniversary as a prominent and highly respected influence in the watchmaking industry for the last six decades.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62736" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3.png" alt="oriental watch company presents take your times savour the moment gafencu_3" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_3-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
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.
&#8220;We are delighted to explore and rethink the meaning of time with our partners, our friends and the public while celebrating our Diamond Jubilee&#8221;, says Managing Director of Oriental Watch Company Dennis Yeung.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62734" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1.png" alt="oriental watch company presents take your times savour the moment gafencu_1" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_1-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
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.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62735" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2.png" alt="oriental watch company presents take your times savour the moment gafencu_2" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_2-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
This collaboration serves as the perfect partnership to reflect the brand&#8217;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.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-62738" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6.png" alt="oriental watch company presents take your times savour the moment gafencu_6" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/oriental-watch-company-presents-take-your-times-savour-the-moment-gafencu_6-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
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&nbsp; for their own keepsake.
Reserve a table at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.madamefu.com.hk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Madame Fù</a>,&nbsp;3rd Floor,Tai Kwun, No. 10 Hollywood Road, Central; (852) 2114 2118 /&nbsp;reservations@madamefu.com.hk
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oriental watch company presents take your times savour the moment gafencu

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

<div style="width: 640px;" class="wp-video"><video class="wp-video-shortcode" id="video-61283-3" width="640" height="360" autoplay="1" preload="metadata" controls="controls"><source type="video/mp4" src="https://www.igafencu.com/video/2110/2110_GMHK_Interview_DouglasSo.mp4?_=3" /><a href="https://www.igafencu.com/video/2110/2110_GMHK_Interview_DouglasSo.mp4">https://www.igafencu.com/video/2110/2110_GMHK_Interview_DouglasSo.mp4</a></video></div>
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.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-2-1.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61303" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-2-1.jpg" alt="gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-2" width="446" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-2-1.jpg 446w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-2-1-200x314.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-2-1-178x280.jpg 178w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-2-1-120x188.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-2-1-400x628.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 446px) 100vw, 446px" /></a>
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.
<blockquote>
“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”
</blockquote>
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.
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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.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-5.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61288" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-5.jpg" alt="gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space -5" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-5.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-5-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-5-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-5-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-5-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /></a>
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.
<blockquote>
“F11 was such a wonderful and unique opportunity to weave the concept of art into a beautifully structured ’30s Art Deco-style heritage building”
</blockquote>
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.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-4.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61287" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-4.jpg" alt="gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space -4" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-4.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-4-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-4-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-4-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-4-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /></a>
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.&nbsp;
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.&nbsp;
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.&nbsp;
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.
<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-6.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61289" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-6.jpg" alt="gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space -6" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-6.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-6-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-6-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-6-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gafencu_people_interview_feature_douglas_so_f11_foto_museum_f22_foto_space-6-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /></a>
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.&nbsp;
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.
&nbsp;
Interview by: Roberliza Eugenio 
Photos: Jack Law 
Art Direction: Jhoshwa Ledesma 
Videographer: Kingsley Lau 
Venue: f22 foto space

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Tag: hong kong artist

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Tag: hong kong artist

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Sneaker Revolution: Spotlighting Hong Kong’s custom sneaker artists

Vibrant City: Hong Kong’s growing art scene

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