Hong Kong Artist Draws Inspiration From City’s Turbulent Past at Art Basel

HONG KONG (AP) — At Hong Kong’s Art Basel, painter Chow Chun-fai’s latest pieces take spectators back to the night in 1997 When the erstwhile British colony reverted to Chinese control, this was showcased precisely at the exhibition center where one era ended and another began.

That transformation during the city's post-colonial period, this has occurred a drastic turn Since 2020, following the actions taken by China, a national security law essentially eliminated opposition. This legislation forced numerous middle-class households and young experts, such as creatives, to emigrate To democracies such as Britain, Canada, Taiwan, and the U.S., which were previously a sanctuary for free speech in Asia.

However, individuals such as Chow decided to remain and keep chronicling their hometown, even with uncertain boundaries. The pieces he presents at Art Basel, which will be open to the public from Friday onwards, explore Hong Kong residents' shared recollections from the late '90s through the early 2000s—a period when many took pride in the city's dynamism and accessibility as a Chinese financial center.

“While studying art, we’ve learned many artists faced momentous times. Since we are living through such a momentous time ourselves now, I will continue to learn from it," he said in an interview ahead of the exhibition.

Chow is perhaps most recognizable to those beyond art circles for his clever reinterpretations of iconic film moments With bilingual subtitles guiding viewers to contemplate Hong Kong’s history and identity, he gained further attention for his participation in elections where he competed against pro-establishment candidates. This occurred during the 2012 legislative vote as well as the 2016 election committee contest; however, he did not emerge victorious in either of these attempts.

At Art Basel, Chow’s artworks explore major news occurrences, including the 1997 handover and foreign visits by previous high-ranking Chinese officials, as well as the festivities surrounding China hosting the 2008 Olympics.

His works center on some of the biggest news stories covered by Sharon Cheung, a former journalist and now local gallery director.

In 2000, late ex-Chinese President Jiang Zemin rebuked Cheung for posing what he deemed " overly simplistic, at times naïve" inquiries. During one exchange, she questioned Jiang about whether endorsing former Hong Kong Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa might be perceived as partaking in an emperor-like selection process. In her artwork, Chow captures this moment.

A new series of Chow's artworks entitled "Panda" will also be exhibited. These pieces offer another perspective on Jiang’s character, chronicling his essence. light-hearted response In response to a query regarding pandas during his visit to the U.S. in 2002, he chuckled and answered in English, "I apologize, but I'm actually an electrical power engineer." Zhang admitted he wasn't a panda specialist and cited a Confucius quote emphasizing the importance of recognizing one’s own ignorance.

Chow said he included the work in the exhibition because pandas have become a trending topic In Hong Kong, where twins born last year ignited a bear frenzy, Jiang's reaction exemplifies the traits of Chinese leaders at that time, he noted.

About two decades later, Chinese officials no longer engage in such candid discussions with Hong Kong reporters. In fact, last year, the Chinese government went so far as to did away with an yearly press briefing by the premier, one of the few instances when a high-ranking Chinese official allowed queries from reporters.

In Hong Kong, Beijing has intensified its grip on power following 2019 anti-government protests . Many leading Pro-democracy advocates were arrested and imprisoned. under the security law. Apple Daily and Stand News News organizations renowned for their stringent critiques of the administration were closed down in 2021 following the arrest of their lead editors.

The cultural industry has experienced a freezing impact.

In 2021, the government proposed changes to its movie classification regulations Due to concerns related to national security, some filmmakers have ceased showing their movies in the city. Artistic pieces that do not align with governmental stances have had their funding withdrawn. At the city’s book fair, booksellers engage in self-censorship, and local libraries faced similar issues in 2023. pulled titles related to the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown in Beijing and some political figures.

Cheung, who directs the SC Gallery, mentioned that individuals have grown more hesitant when sharing their opinions; however, both she and Chow refuse to be deterred by fear. She added that art provides an essential space for varied interpretations due to its inherent detachment.

“She mentioned, ‘Our aim isn’t to convey a specific message. Instead, we’re focused on what viewers interpret from these pictures.’”

Chow mentioned that he had no intention of leaving Hong Kong regardless of the significant transformations occurring within the city. He pointed out that many artists throughout history have created remarkable works during times of substantial change.

He remarked, 'In this current period of change, how could I, as a creative professional, possibly miss being part of it firsthand?'

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