Saying goodbye to the vibrant summer, the September scene in Hong Kong remains lively, continuing to blend various forms of creativity from fashion design, colorful floating bubbles, to a fusion of Chinese ink paintings and handmade dolls. Walking under the moonlight of September, slowly stepping into autumn’s thoughts, opening up a boundless imagination, letting the overflowing summer heat and regrets be carried away by the autumn breeze, enjoying the beauty brought by art.
1. M+ Museum Special Exhibition
“Kwok Pui: Boundless Creativity”
I have seen a lot of high-end customizations on the runway, and finally, I can appreciate them up close!
One of China’s top fashion artists and one of China’s first contemporary fashion designers Guo Pei (born in 1967) has been dedicated to the industry for nearly forty years. Her haute couture runway collections blend deep Chinese cultural heritage with international fashion and artistic expression, absorbing the cultural essences of Asia and the world from the past century.
She is known for her unique fashion expression, beautiful embroidery, and exquisite tailoring techniques. Her past designs have amazed fashion and art audiences around the world. In her creatively boundless works, she combines Chinese traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics, complemented by Chinese and Western three-dimensional tailoring. This showcases her strength in launching exquisite high-end custom collections in Paris, bringing everyone a delicate exchange surrounding visual imagination and craftsmanship.
This time, at the first Guo Pei themed exhibition held in China, showcasing her classic runway series and early works, highlighting her unique career path renowned both at home and abroad, as well as the cultural symbols created by her brilliant and dazzling creations. Among the more than forty original fashion pieces, including the “Yellow Queen” gown worn by American pop music queen Rihanna at the 2015 Met Gala charity dinner at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, bringing together the ancient Chinese royal attire and etiquette with European court fashion, architectural aesthetics, and the botanical world, creating a mutual brilliance.
Dates: September 21, 2024 – April 6, 2025
Location: M+ Museum | Underground Grand Hall Exhibition Hall
M+ Museum New Works
“Lee Mingwei: The Streak of Sound” and “A.A. Murakami: Realm of Drifting”
Immerse yourself in a world full of floating iridescent bubbles, experience the sensory imagination of sound, and create uniquely imaginative works.
《The Blossom of Sound》 is the acclaimed performance installation created by internationally renowned artist Lee Ming-wai in 2013. This work features five pieces of music and a group of Hong Kong classical music singers, offering an extraordinary gift of natural trust, intimacy, and self-awareness to the audience. In this piece, singers dressed in specially designed robes casually interact with visitors, presenting them with a live performance of a Schubert piece as a gift, creating a brief yet unforgettable connection between the singers and the listeners, sharing a transformative moment together.
While another “A.A. Murakami: Floating Realm” is created by the duo art team “A.A. Murakami” composed of Alexander Groves and Azusa Murakami, bursting floating rainbow bubbles into clouds in “Beyond the Sky” (2024). The bubbles symbolize the brevity of life, while clouds carry auspicious and sacred meanings; in “Day Pass” (2024), physical mist rings rush towards the undulating digital ocean, but when the mist rings touch the screen surface, they step into simulated space, break free from physical constraints, and continue their boundless journey.
Through innovative technological research, reimagining the beginning of all things, and in two mutually responsive immersive installations, bring extraordinary experiences. During the exhibition period, M+ will also offer meditation workshops on October 19, November 16, and December 21, 2024 (Saturdays), inviting audiences to connect more deeply with themselves and appreciate artworks in a focused and contemplative way. Event details will be announced later on the M+ website.
Performance Installation “Lee Ming-wei: Sonic Blossom”
Date: August 27 – September 29, 2024 | Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday, Sunday (14:00-17:00), Friday (14:00-18:00)
Location: M+ Museum | Focal Point, 2/F (Performance for ticket holders at specified times)
Exhibition “A.A. Murakami: Floating Realms”
Date: August 31, 2024 – February 2, 2025
Location: M+ Museum | Exhibition Space, B2/F (Free admission for public visit)
3. No Idea Gallery
Japanese artist Misuzu Tokita’s solo exhibition “Infinity”
I wonder if everyone still remembers the Japanese artist Misuzu Tokita‘s solo exhibition in Hong Kong last year? This year, she is back in Hong Kong with the exhibition “Infinity”, paying homage to the Czech illustrator and graphic artist Alfons Maria Mucha!
This creation was inspired by the flourishing of Japonisme culture in France in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The elegant and graceful female figures depicted by Mucha, with their beautiful lines, deeply captivated Tokita Misuzu. Therefore, the exhibition works focus on girl characters, with dreamy and soft colors, highlighting the characteristic of Japanese art focusing on painting skin and hair. It is believed that it will evoke many people’s memories of Japanese girls’ manga from the 1970s!
As an exploration of new art, this exhibition will also present and depict the current state of the new art movement in daily life.
Date: Starting from now until September 28th | 12:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: No Idea Gallery | Unit 1703, Hullett House, 1-13 Hollywood Road, Central
Han Yaxuan
Yeh Shiqiang Ink Exhibition “Heavenly Longevity”｜YEH SHIH-CHIANG IN INK: CONSTRUCTING ETERNITY
Step into the pure and ethereal spiritual universe of the legendary painter Ye Shiqiang (1926 – 2012)!
Living a simple and secluded life, Ye Shiqiang, who once studied under Master Gao Jianzhi at the Guangzhou Art College, dedicated himself to breaking through artistic boundaries. He also studied the guqin with Master Sun Yuqin and practiced Zen with Master Nan Huaijin. He has been devoted to crafting guqin for a long time and is well-known in the Taiwanese guqin circle for his authentic and profound musical style. His calligraphy and painting works are only shared with a few chosen individuals and never displayed casually.
He fuses the mediums of ink, watercolor, and oil paint with a solitary yet passionate brush, pushing the boundaries of the two-dimensional canvas. Rooted in everyday life, his artistic practice advances towards aesthetic perfection, using art as a means of spiritual refinement and self-cultivation in the solitude of his life experiences. Embracing the eternal artistic conception as his guide, he simultaneously engages in modern and traditional artistic languages, breaking norms with a strong personality and profound spiritual realm. Considered impoverished yet boundless, he finds life freedom in poverty, evolving into a legend of the cultural world through adversity.
This time is a rare opportunity to share with everyone, it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance!
Date: September 14th – October 19th, 2024 Location: Hanah’s Pavilion | 2nd Floor, Mai On Industrial Building, 17-21 Kwai Chung Industrial Street, Hong Kong
5. Fosun PhillipsX
“In Tribute to Tradition – Wong Uk Hing: Another Clue Beyond the ‘Contemporary'”
Chinese contemporary artist Huang Yuxing, who specializes in studying traditional Chinese ancient painting techniques, presents a new personal project that pays tribute to tradition. In addition to inheriting the “contemporary” style, the project showcases the artist’s iconic oil paintings that have repeatedly set record highs in the auction market, revealing a series of new creative endeavors.
The exhibited works include Huang Yuxing’s Chinese ink paintings drawn during his youth, the fantastical landscapes that inject contemporary aesthetics into traditional Chinese landscape, purple sand teapot sculptures, ceramics, as well as his personally crafted seal carving and seals. In particular, the “Seven Treasures Pine Teapot” stands out, not only showcasing his infatuation with traditional Chinese landscape painting but also embodying his passion for ancient and ever-renewing traditional craftsmanship passed down through generations of the Chinese people, offering a fresh interpretation of the inseparable and harmonious relationship between “ancient and modern,” “Chinese and Western,” “traditional and contemporary,” “technique and art.”
Dates: September 11 – October 4, 2024 (Monday to Friday | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm);
September 21 – 22 and September 28 – 29 (11:00 am – 7:00 pm)
Location: FASHION ASIA Headquarters | West Kowloon Cultural District, 8 Fubon Street, West Kowloon, Hong Kong, G/F and 1/F
6. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) x Renowned Doll Artist Ning Lau
“Art at the Brink” Environmental Conservation Charity Auction and Art Exhibition
“Art for Coexisting with Nature” is a pioneering project that combines art and environmental protection. TNC collaborates with the renowned doll artist Ning Lau to exhibit 16 carefully crafted, one-of-a-kind doll artworks, each intricately showcasing unique and threatened species or habitats in the Asia-Pacific region and their natural environment.
In addition to vibrant marine ecosystems, dense forests, and vast skies, Ning deliberately uses upgraded recycled fabrics in each doll creation, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and highlighting the importance of reusing materials to reduce waste and protect the environment, evoking a profound connection to the wonders of nature through these exquisite doll artworks. “As an artist, I believe art can touch hearts and inspire a passion for conservation.” Says the artist behind the creations, Ning Lau, “Through these dolls, I hope to raise awareness among the public about the beauty and fragility of the natural world, inspiring everyone to protect endangered species and habitats. I am honored to be part of this project, raising public awareness for this important environmental cause.”
The highlights of this series include the Sri Lankan Dawn Butterfly and Oyster Reef Doll, inspired by the renowned artist Lin Mingzhen. Due to Mingzhen’s strong interest and passion for nature conservation, she not only fully supports this important conservation effort but also personally participates and expresses sincere concern for endangered species and their habitats.
Art Exhibition
Date: September 5 – 18, 2024｜10:00 – 22:00
Location: Park Court, Level 1, Pacific Place (near Shiro)
Online Auction
Date: September 5, 2024 – October 31, 2024
Time: 24 hours a day
Hong Kong Palace Museum
“A New Narrative: Masterpieces of Ming Dynasty Figure Paintings from the Palace Museum“
This is the final issue, showcasing five national first-class cultural relics, such as Qiu Ying (circa 1494-1552)’s “Portrait of Emperor Xiaozong by Xiao Zhao and His Auspicious Response>”, Tang Yin (1470-1524)’s “Official Paying Respects to the Prince>”; both Qiu Ying and Tang Yin are among the “Four Masters of Wu School,” and the portrait “Emperor Ming Visiting the Moon Palace” by their master Zhou Chen (circa 1460-1535) is also on display in this issue. Other first-class cultural relics on display include Ni Zuan (active in the mid-late 15th century)’s “Portrait of Pong” and Zeng Jing (1564-1647)’s “Portrait of Ge Zhenfu”.
There are other key exhibits, including the “Painting of a Gathering of Five Officials” by an artist with the surname Ding (active in the early 16th century), depicting a scene of five high-ranking officials from Suzhou meeting in the capital during the mid-Ming period, allowing future generations to understand the social interactions of Ming officials. Also, there is the “Along the River During the Qingming Festival” painted by artists from the late Ming period. While largely following the composition and painting techniques of the original work by Zhang Zeduan from the Northern Song Dynasty, the buildings, city walls, bridges, and human activities in the painting have been extensively modified, incorporating some realistic scenes of Suzhou in the Ming Dynasty. These serve as important references for later generations to understand the scenery of Jiangnan during the Ming Dynasty.
Remember to seize the last chance to admire the masterpieces of Ming Dynasty artists!
Date: September 4, 2024 – November 30, 2024
Location: Hong Kong Palace Museum | 8 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong
Further Reading:
- 【Exclusive Interview with Stage Actors Lu Wenjie and Luo Zhengxin】Satan’s madness and the stage’s frenzy, witness their genuine nature beneath the wild strokes, reenacting the outstanding theatrical productions of the year!
- Step into the fleeting light and shadows of Monet and Van Gogh’s eyes! How do “Water Lilies” & “Moored Boats” shape up as masterpieces?
- Jisoo Personally Interprets! Dior’s 2024 Fall Makeup Collection Debuts Romantically, Perfectly Recreating the Map of Paris
8. Hong Kong Design Institute
《It’s about Time》by Wong Wing-fai Photography Exhibition
Photographer Sam Wong has been a key witness to the golden era of Cantonese pop music since his return to Hong Kong in 1984. Through his lens, he has captured many Hong Kong superstars such as Anita Mui, Danny Chan, Leslie Cheung, Anita Mui, and Jacky Cheung. His notable work includes the first album cover photo for Anita Mui’s “One Thousand Suns,” which won the “Best Album Cover Award.” Later, he even founded Hong Kong’s first professional photographers’ group, showcasing undeniable talent.
Specializing in portrait photography and discovering the unique side of each person, he said, “I am not a controlling person, I don’t need to design everything in front of the camera to fit my liking, instead, I enjoy capturing people’s spirits and emotions.“
This exhibition marks his first show in 40 years since he entered the industry. It is truly rare to see a star shining among the myriad of classic works. If you are interested in photography and Cantonese songs, you must not miss it.
Date: Now until September 15th | 9:00 – 18:00
Location: Room C003, Hong Kong Design Institute
9. Qi Liang Gallery
“Fantasy of Flowers” Two-Person Exhibition
Colombian artist Gina Maldonado and Hong Kong artist Chan Tsz Kwan invite the public to explore a whimsical world centered around flowers.
Gina’s deep-rooted passion for floral art and fascination with the adaptability of flora and fauna in various environments, and Chan Tsz Kwan’s focus on documenting the Scottish Highlands, sparking her reflections on environmental conservation. Both artists, fueled by their love for nature, incorporate romantic elements, hoping the public will rediscover the wonders of nature in urban landscapes, find the beauty hidden around them, and connect with the peace, understanding, and transcendence amidst the chaos of city life, immersing themselves in the joyous and astonishing “Floral Fantasia.”
Date: September 28, 2024 – October 12, 2024 | 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Please make an appointment for viewing)
Location: Unit B20, 7/F, Landmark South, 39 Yip Kwai Street, Wong Chuk Hang
10. WHATZ Art Curators Fair
Following the successful events in Taipei and Singapore, this highly acclaimed art expo will make its debut in Hong Kong, showcasing a luxurious display of modern and contemporary art, presenting a visual feast for art enthusiasts in Hong Kong!
In the elegant atmosphere of the JW Marriott Hotel, the WHATZ Art Curators Fair will exhibit a diverse collection of works from 150 emerging, mid-career, and award-winning artists from around the world. Participating artists include: Wong Man Hon, Leung Lam Po, Yann Rebecq, Hou Zhongying, Shazia Imran, Yu Mengshu, and Gong Jingting, bringing endless surprises to the guests.
Each hotel room will be transformed into a unique art space, with over 25 local and international artists in attendance. This innovative approach creates a distinctive and charming atmosphere, allowing every guest to experience a cozy feeling of being at home, promoting profound and meaningful interactions between artists and collectors.
WHATZ Art Curators Fair cordially invites all art enthusiasts, collectors, and discerning citizens to explore this unparalleled exhibition at JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong.
Date: October 18-20, 2024
Location: JW Marriott Hotel
(Tickets will be available for purchase on KLOOK starting from September 2, 2024, priced at HK$120 each. For more information, please visit www.whatz.info)
Hong Kong City Chamber Orchestra 25th Anniversary Concert
“Tango Night Fever”
The City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong (CCOHK) celebrates its 25th anniversary with a passionate tango music night. The magical moment of “Tango Passion Night” begins at 8 p.m., igniting the audience to dance with the charm of music and dance.
During the performance, world-class tango music or dance masters from Argentina, Uruguay, and Italy will gather, performing the works of the greatest composers in tango music history such as Piazzolla, Pugliese, Troilo, Gardel, and Binelli, including a duo of accordion and piano – Daniel Binelli and Polly Ferman, along with tango dancers Claudio Hoffmann and Cinzia Lombardi, jointly with the Hong Kong City Chamber Orchestra, presenting a unique performance blending modern and nostalgic classic tangos. The audience will feel as if transported to Buenos Aires, enjoying a romantic night of music, then being taken into the golden age of tango in the 1940s. The Hong Kong City Chamber Orchestra will also perform Piazzolla’s rhythmic tango piece “Shark” and Preisner’s “Blue, White, Red – Tango” created for a film, promising an absolutely breathtaking experience!
Date: September 30, 2024 (Monday) | 8:00 PM
Location: Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall
12. Hong Kong x Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
“ASEAN Film Festival 2024”
As the first film event in Hong Kong to bring together films from 10 countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), over 20 films will be screened for free to promote cross-cultural connections and appreciate the diverse cultures of ASEAN countries.
Many renowned ASEAN directors and actors have won numerous awards worldwide with their creativity and unique storytelling techniques. From heartwarming comedies and inspirational stories to intense science fiction and action movies, ASEAN film workers have made significant contributions to both the ASEAN and international film industries. As a hub in the Asian film industry, Hong Kong is famous for its rich cultural history and unique film themes. It certainly seizes the opportunity to lead the public to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s traditions and values. Approximately 10 producers, directors, and actors of the screening films will come to Hong Kong to attend the post-screening discussion, hoping to share their creative ideas and the stories behind the film production with the audience present.
During the event, Hong Kong’s renowned film industry professionals, such as Ms. Chan Siu Kuen, director of “Tracey,” and Mr. Tsang Hing Wai, director of “Still Human,” were invited to participate in post-screening discussions, enhancing cultural exchanges during the film festival.
Date: September 5th – 28th, 2024
(Starting from today, the public can register on the official website of the ASEAN Film Festival 2024 to exchange for free entry tickets, limited quantity)
