In recent years, there have been more galleries featuring contemporary art or art “within our lifetimes” in Hong Kong. Contemporary art includes, develops from, postmodern art, which is itself a successor to modern art. Located in Soho, Hollywood Road, Chai Wan, Chancery Lane, Aberdeen, Sai Ying Pun are just a few of the many places that offer a peek to the galleries which feature thousands of artworks from Asia and the rest of the world. Many have distinct themselves from one another in character, style, and artistic medium in these exhibitions. Others have builded their brand persona through a series of thematically unique pieces that have been withstanding the test of time.

Various artists also exercise in deep self-reflections and continuous observations in their artworks. A handful of artists have many interests and are activists themselves while others advocate or articulate an awareness of their subject matters with moving and emotional eloquence. A lot of artworks also invite myriad interpretations of different meanings and perceptions based on the viewer’s own reactions to the artworks. Revolutionary artworks incorporating technological advancements have been noticeable, particular with the use of virtual reality (VR). Virtual Reality typically refers to computer technologies that use software to generate the realistic images, sounds and other sensations that replicate a real environment or create an imaginary settings to simulate a user’s physical presence in this environment. Many VR headsets nowadays has 360 degree functionality which allows end users to walk around and move their heads while looking at many different angles of the replicated real environment through the devices.

Awethentic Gallery, located in the Central Building, is the city’s first art, exhibition and virtual reality concept space. It showcases socially and environmentally conscious art and fine art photography. When I first walked into the gallery, it has many fine art photographs hanging on the walls on the ground floor which has some of the African endangered species, including elephants, zebras, rhinos, and other wildlife taken from Kenya, Sumatra etc. It also has collaborated with an emerging local artist, Queenie Rosita Law, in a hybrid artwork layered on top of another print. The second floor has a “Love is Wild VR” which is a virtual reality film about marine conservation in the Soloman Islands which was directed by Sean Lee Davies and produced by Awethentic Studio. The 360 videos from the iPhone gets loaded to the virtual reality headset which enable you to click on the screen from the side button and play the real environment.

Sean Lee Davies is a photographer, producer and host of TVB television shows “Tycoon Talk” and “Adventures to the Edge” and the former editorial director of Asia Tatler, for which he has interviewed and shot the likes of Catherine Zeta-Jones and David Beckham. The Hong Kong-Born, UK-raised is also a devoted conservationist raising awareness about sustainability, and environmental issues through the power of media and celebrity effect. In 2010, he has launched Project C: Change, a social enterprise dedicated to conservationism on endangered species. 25% of all proceeds of print sales during the events will go to their partnered charities.

It is opened:
Mon-Fri 10am – 9pm,
G28, Central Building,
No. 1-3 Pedder Street,
Central, Hong Kong until Feb 27th, 2017.

Bookings and Enquiry: Michelle Lau / michellelau@awethenticstudio.com

9th Edition Opens Thursday 15th September

Hong Kong, Tuesday July 5th 2016: The popular and highly successful Asia Contemporary Art Show returns for its 9th edition on September 15 – 18, 2016, at the Conrad Hong Kong. The Show presents a diverse line up of more than 80 exhibitors from 15 countries in Asia and around the world, bringing to Hong Kong an outstanding collection of more than 2,500 artworks including original paintings, limited editions, sculpture and photography.

Director Mark Saunderson said that visitors to the Show can expect to see a diverse line up of artists and a wide range of exciting artworks. “This September, we are pleased to present many talented emerging and mid-career artists who have not joined the Show before, and whose works are new to Asia.

“Collectors and art enthusiasts alike will appreciate the works of artists like young Chinese contemporary painter Du Xi whose work brings together the historical with the contemporary; the romantic and mysterious works of Vietnamese Doan Xuan Tang; Argentinian artist Claudia Ferrari who brings South American flair to her Japanese ink-wash works; and paintings by local Hong Kong artist Lau Chin Hung, who recently achieved success at Sotheby’s and Christie’s.”

Saunderson explained the choice of venue, with art displayed in curated rooms over four floors at the Conrad Hong Kong. “What we offer is a unique experience that takes the visitor ‘beyond the white wall’ of art galleries and other art fairs in Hong Kong. Our art rooms provide a setting, much as you would see art when hung at home or at work. And importantly, it’s an experience where the visitor to the Show can connect with the artist or gallery staff. The hotel art fair concept is embraced in principal art hubs around the world, including Miami, New York and London – the format also makes good commercial sense for both art seller and buyer as the cost of expensive exhibition hall space is not priced into the artwork.”

The Asia Contemporary Art Show would like to acknowledge and thank arts patrons Macey and Sons Auctioneers and Valuers Limited, the Wall Street Journal Asia Edition, Venture Studios, Fiji Water and Langton’s East Asia; as well as hospitality partners Samuel Adams and Leaf Tea Boutique for their support.

Tickets for the Asia Contemporary Art Show are now available for HK$220 (buy one and bring a friend for free) at www.asiacontemporaryart.com.  Tickets at the door are HK$220 per person.

Asia Contemporary Art Show
9th Edition
Conrad Hong Kong, 40 – 43 floors
September 15 – 18, 2016

Opening Hours:
VIP Collectors Preview (by invitation only)
Thursday September 15, 5pm – 9pm

Friday ART Night (by invitation or ticket)
Friday September 16, 5pm – 9pm

General Admission
Friday September 16, 1pm – 5pm
Saturday September 17, 1pm – 8pm
Sunday September 18, 11am – 6pm

Tickets:
Specially priced advance-purchase online tickets are on sale now for HK$220, and bring a friend for free (tickets at the door are HK$220 per person). Includes access to Friday ART Night on Friday September 16 with a complimentary drink; plus multiple access Friday afternoon, Saturday and Sunday.

Free admission for children under 16yrs accompanied by an adult.
Buy tickets at http://www.asiacontemporaryart.com/tickets/

« MINDSCAPES »

The famous Parisian luxury goods brand Longchamp has just begun renovations of its historic store on rue Saint-Honoré in Paris, the brand’s hometown. For Longchamp, it’s the perfect opportunity to bring art into the heart of Paris, with an exceptional storefront decorated with a spectacular work of art, « Mindscapes », by American artist Ryan McGinness! Located on the corner of two very busy streets just a few dozen meters from the Place de la Concorde, this decoration will be in place from March.

Jean Cassegrain, Longchamp CEO and the founder’s grandson, clarifies: “Renovations of this magnitude in such a conspicuous location need something spectacular that go beyond a simple tarp. Our brand is all about the unexpected, and this completely unconventional and innovative project is a perfect example. I met Ryan ten years ago in New York and I’ve been following his work ever since. When we decided to do a unique building tarp, we immediately thought of Ryan. His work has an energy to it that is in harmony with this prestigious corner location.”

Cassegrain explains: “This decoration in the heart of Paris is a very important step for us. Ryan is from New York and we’re from Paris, two cities overflowing with energy and creativity! As symbolized by the horse and rider galloping in our logo, our brand is in perpetual movement. These words can also be used to describe Ryan’s work and the piece he has created for this site.”

Ryan McGinness adds: “In autumn 2015, I received an invitation from Jean Cassegrain, whom I have known for years, to ‘wrap’ the brand’s Paris flagship store on Rue Saint-Honoré while extensive renovations take place. The artwork will cover two faces of the corner building and extend from pavement level up to the roof. I began by developing preliminary sketches and thumbnails, which allow me to then consider options for the solution to the artistic challenge. We decided to go with ‘fragmenting the façade’ into ‘windows’ of brightly colored paintings with strong black borders. I selected striking and colorful images that I want to feel personal to passers-by. I have used details from a variety of my paintings, many of which refer to dreamlike images. I use fluorescents, pearlescents, varying textures and finishes in order to intensify their impact.”

The Museum of Modern Art of New York (MoMA) wrote about Ryan’s work in 2007: “Plant life, logos and symbols, fairy tales and everyday scenes, family crests and coats of arms are a few of the disparate subjects that McGinness fragments, alters and layers to build his dense networks of brightly colored fantastical imagery.”

“This emblematic store is the true heart of Longchamp,” continues Cassegrain. “Rue Saint-Honoré is where it all started, where our brand began developing worldwide while affirming its Parisian roots. Our retail area will be significantly expanded thanks to these renovations, marking a new phase in our development. This partnership, which brings together a contemporary artist and a building classified as a historical monument, clearly highlight how much Longchamp values creativity and artistry. Under the tarp designed by Ryan, the compagnons – French artisans with centuries-old traditions – will restore the building’s eighteenth-century facades. This ability to combine innovation and know-how perfectly captures the spirit of our fashion house.”

Bio – Ryan McGinness

Ryan McGinness is an American artist, living and working in New York, New York. He grew up in the surf and skate culture of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and then studied at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as an Andrew Carnegie Scholar. During college, he interned at the Andy Warhol Museum as a curatorial assistant. Known for his extensive vocabulary of original graphic drawings that use the visual language of public signage, corporate logos, and contemporary symbology, McGinness is credited with elevating the status of the icon to fine art through the creation of his paintings, sculptures, installations, and books.

He assumes the power of this visual language in order to share personal expressions. The New York Times noted, “In the past decade, McGinness has become an art star, thanks to his Warholian mix of pop iconography and silk-screening.” Vogue declared, “Ryan McGinness is a leading pioneer of the new semiotics.” Swathed in ornate, curvaceous lines, McGinness’s compositions are a postmodern twist on the eighteenth-century Rococo style, characterized by playful opulence and intricate, coiling forms.

Personal Website: http://www.ryanmcginness.com/

Beyond Event Horizon
Panel Discussion: The Future of Public Art in Hong Kong
Tuesday 17 May 2016, 7pm – 8.30 pm at The Fringe Club
Sign up here. Free admission

#LookUpHK #EventHorizonHK
#BritishCouncilHongKong #K11ArtFoundation #AntonyGormley

Event Horizon | presented in Hong Kong by the British Council, 2015 | Photography by Oak Taylor-Smith

11 May 2016 (HONG KONG) – Event Horizon – Hong Kong’s most extensive public art installation has changed the urban landscape of Hong Kong since November last year. Before the completion of this tremendous project created by British artist Antony Gormley, the British Council will host a panel discussion with key cultural speakers to discuss the impact of Event Horizon and the future development of public art in Hong Kong on Tuesday 17 May 2016.

Presented by the British Council Hong Kong and supported by lead partner the K11 Art Foundation (KAF), Event Horizon’s 31 sculptures installed at both street level and building tops have enriched Hong Kong’s cityscape and the exhibition will be shown until 18 May 2016. In addition to running a series of education and outreach programmes for teachers and the general public, the upcoming panel discussion aims to share some unique insight into the Event Horizon story, as well as the many challenges that the project encountered along the way.

Moderated by Robert Ness, Director of British Council, the panellists include:
– Benny Chia, Director of Hong Kong Fringe Club
– Cassius Taylor-Smith, Curatorial Director of Event Horizon Hong Kong
– Euan Upston, Director of Central Police Station Compound
– Maris Wong, Managing Director of HKwalls

Apart from taking an in-depth look at Event Horizon in Hong Kong and how the project resonates with Hong Kong people, the panellists will also discuss how it can change the perception of public art in the city; what the key lessons are; and what Hong Kong people can do to contribute to the city’s cultural life.

Robert Ness, Director of British Council Hong Kong said: “Public installations encourage the community to interact with art, which I believe makes a city a better place to live in. The installation has provided the opportunity for debate, discussion, and evaluation of the impact that is created when the public encounters art on this expansive scale. As Event Horizon is almost coming to an end, I think it is a good time for us to reflect on what has been achieved in the past six months, and what challenges we have come through to put this together. We are looking forward to seeing more public art in Hong Kong after Event Horizon.”

In partnership with Hong Kong Arts Administrators Association, the panel discussion is a pre-2016 Cultural Leadership Summit event.

About Antony Gormley
Antony Gormley’s work has been widely exhibited throughout the UK and internationally with exhibitions at Forte di Belvedere, Florence (2015); Zentrum Paul Klee, Bern (2014); Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia (2012); Deichtorhallen, Hamburg (2012); The State Hermitage Museum, St Petersburg (2011); Kunsthaus Bregenz, Austria (2010); Hayward Gallery, London (2007); Malmö Konsthall, Sweden (1993) and Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Humlebæk, Denmark (1989). Permanent public works include the Angel of the North (Gateshead, England), Another Place (Crosby Beach, England), Inside Australia (Lake Ballard, Western Australia) and Exposure (Lelystad, The Netherlands).

Gormley was awarded the Turner Prize in 1994, the South Bank Prize for Visual Art in 1999, the Bernhard Heiliger Award for Sculpture in 2007, the Obayashi Prize in 2012 and the Praemium Imperiale in 2013. In 1997 he was made an Officer of the British Empire (OBE) and was made a knight in the New Year’s Honours list in 2014. He is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects, an Honorary Doctor of the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Trinity and Jesus Colleges, Cambridge. Gormley has been a Royal Academician since 2003.

Antony Gormley was born in London in 1950.

Artist’s website: www.antonygormley.com   

Learn more about Antony Gormley: Event Horizon Hong Kong on the website at www.eventhorizon.hk, and join the conversation on social media:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/EventHorizonHK
Instagram: instagram.com/eventhorizonhk

#LookUpHK #EventHorizonHK #BritishCouncilHongKong #K11ArtFoundation #AntonyGormley

This event will induce visitors to evolve in an unreal world, a world which will call upon our imagination and our creativity. In front of the difficulties we are facing in our contemporary world, Guillaume Bottazzi’s artwork brings us pleasure and wellness.

Unseen in Hong Kong:
In a 565 m² space, the Hong Central Library will host from May 21th to June 5th the first public Guillaume Bottazzi’s exhibition in Hong Kong. On this occasion, 23 recent paintings will be shown, including artworks of 3 meters by 2 meters and 2 meters by 2 meters. This exhibition includes oil on canvas and also some paintings made with fine plaster and glue on fabric. A workshop will be held under the theme: « Living together ».

Will also be presented its artworks in public spaces, a specialization of this artist. Guillaume Bottazzi has signed more than forty monumental site-specific art works, including the biggest painting in Japan for MIMAS (Miyanomori International Museum of Art). His most recent work, a 200 m² painting, takes place in the artistic path of Paris La Défense, the largest open-air contemporary art space in France.

Four documentaries will be shown, including one unseen by the public, realized by Miyanomori International Museum of Art (MIMAS). This film was shot during the execution of 900 m² painting realized by Guillaume Bottazzi on all the walls of the museum in 2011.

This exhibition also introduce a recent scientific research focus on Guillaume Bottazzi’s artwork effects. This study shows how Guillaume Bottazzi’s painting bring us pleasure and wellness.

Le French May
Established in 1993, Le French May is one of the largest cultural events in Asia. With more than 120 programmes presented across two months, it has become an iconic part of Hong Kong’s cultural scene that reach out over 1 million visitors each year.

For more details:
http://www.guillaume.bottazzi.org/
http://2016.frenchmay.com/programmes/event.aspx?name=GUILLAUMEBOTTAZZI

[12 May, 2016] HONG KONG.  Three day art event kicks off with new Collectors’ Afternoon and Private View, opening to members of the public tomorrow.

Capturing the hearts of art-enthusiasts, the fourth edition of the Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong commenced today with a Private View at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. As one of Hong Kong’s most loved art weekends (held on 13-15 May), the Private View welcomed invited guests to enjoy an exclusive first look at the 2016 exhibition, browsing through over 110 hand-picked galleries.

Continuing in its mission to put more art into Hong Kong homes, the fair will officially open to the public from midday Friday, for a fun filled weekend of beautiful art, engaging initiatives and special projects, including an Artful Salon by TEDxHongKong, FRESH exhibition and more, with hundreds of artworks to choose from whatever your budget.

OPENING HOURS

Public Days
13 May 2016, Friday
12pm – 9pm

14 -15 May 2016, Saturday – Sunday
11am – 7pm

SWAROVSKI BRINGS SUNDEW INSTALLATION BY

ELAINE YAN LING NG TO ART CENTRAL 2016

Hong Kong, March 2016 – Swarovski will unveil ‘Sundew’, a spectacular kinetic crystal installation by British Chinese Designer Elaine Yan Ling Ng at the 2016 edition of Art Central set to be held 23-26 March (First Night 21 March, VIP preview 22 March) 2016. Exhibited at Hong Kong’s Central Harbourfront, ‘Sundew’ will represent Swarovski’s second successive partnership with Art Central, part of Hong Kong Art Week.

With ‘Sundew’, Hong Kong-based artist Elaine Yan Ling Ng brings her unique approach to design, encompassing textiles, electronics, biomimicry and interiors to create a highly interactive presentation. Taking inspiration from nature, craft and technology, Ng has created interactive objects that mimic the exotic ‘Sundew’, a carnivorous plant that attracts its prey with scent and reflected light.

The installation features hand-fabricated textiles combining natural fibers and 316m of Swarovski crystal fabric (approximately 20 million crystals), and lures audiences in, trapping them with mesmerising displays of light, fragrance and movement.

Founder of Hong Kong-based bespoke textile consultancy The Fabrick Lab, Elaine Yan Ling Ng was unveiled as one of the 2015 Swarovski Designers of the Future at Salone del Mobile in Milan in April last year, an award that acknowledges emerging studios and designers who are actively expanding design culture through experimentation with cutting-edge technologies. As part of the collaboration with Swarovski, Elaine unveiled the first rendition of “Sundew” at this year’s Design Miami/Basel.

Elaine Yan Ling Ng says, “After visiting Swarovski’s head office in Wattens, Austria I now regard crystal as an ingredient for making new material, texture and surfaces and for this project it’s exciting to be combining craft and technology to explore new functions.”

Nadja Swarovski, Member of the Swarovski Executive Board, commented: “We are delighted to bring Elaine Yan Ling Ng’s ‘Sundew’ to Asia for the first time. This mesmerising installation debuted at Design Miami/ Basel in June 2015 for the inaugural Swarovski Designers of the Future Award. Swarovski is committed to supporting emerging talent across the various creative industries and it is our pleasure to present Elaine’s work at the second edition of Art Central and to participate in this vibrant celebration of contemporary art and culture.” Prominently displayed in the main entrance at Art Central 2016, Sundew is a stunning sound activated kinetic presentation combining handmade textiles, biomimicry and Swarovski crystal fabric. The installation is inspired by the carnivorous sundew plant which uses scent to attract its prey before encircling it in a deadly grip.

Fair’s distinctly Asian edge celebrates Hong Kong as a global centre for contemporary art

(Hong Kong, 21 March 2016) Art Central, Hong Kong’s contemporary art fair with an Asian edge has been unveiled, with over 100 galleries from 21 countries, 75% hailing from greater Asia. The fair officially kicks off with First Night, one of the most anticipated events on Hong Kong’s cultural calendar, before opening to the public from 23-26 March (VIP Preview 22 March). A site of discovery, the fair boasts a strong gallery line-up and presents over 500 emerging and established artists from Asia and around the world. Housed within the city’s largest ever bespoke temporary structure, the fair presents a dynamic program that includes interactive installations, engaging panel discussions, experimental film and performance art alongside Hong Kong’s hottest restaurants. Art Central 2016 will engage all from seasoned collectors and avid art enthusiasts to families and students.

Launched in 2015, Art Central’s debut added a fresh new dimension to Hong Kong Art Week and was embraced by the Hong Kong public, and international collectors and buyers alike. The second edition brings a distinctly Asian edge as it presents the next generation of talent alongside some of the more established names in contemporary art, further elevating Hong Kong as an international arts destination.

Tim Etchells, Co-Founder of Art Central and ART HK, (which subsequently has become Art Basel in Hong Kong) says, “We are truly proud of what Art Central has achieved in helping to further promote Hong Kong as a global arts hub. The success of the inaugural edition proved that Hong Kong was ready for a complementary fair and an Art Week that rivals the likes of London, New York and Miami. What we have created is a parallel fair unlike any other; presented to the very highest of standards. We look forward to redefining expectations with our second edition and continuing to solidify Hong Kong’s place as the global centre for contemporary Asian art.”

Maree Di Pasquale, Fair Director, says, “Art Central 2016 has been designed to push boundaries and transcend the traditional art fair experience. From site-specific installations and entertaining yet at times hard-hitting performance art, to a world-class talks program and some of Hong Kong’s most exciting new restaurants, the fair’s second edition has raised the bar with an ambitious program that appeals to both the connoisseur collector and art enthusiast alike.”

“Art Central shares strong foundations with Hong Kong’s art industry and we truly believe in Hong Kong’s standing as the international centre for Asian art. Taking place during a now internationally recognised Art Week, Art Central 2016 will help to further define Hong Kong as a catalyst for arts and culture globally, said Maree.”

“It is fantastic to have such a strong line of partners involved this year, from Swarovski who is presenting an incredible kinetic installation ‘Sundew’ by the Swarovski Young Designers of the Future winner Elaine Yan Ling Ng, to J.Crew’s RISE Award putting the spotlight on the next generation of artistic talent. It is truly great to see the commitment of Hong Kong businesses across so many sectors to supporting the arts,” said Maree.

Along with museum quality works and cutting-edge programming, food and socialising are key ingredients to the Art Central experience. From Neo-Parisian dishes in the city’s most coveted new restaurant, Belon, to relaxing in the Street Food area while listening to a live DJ and enjoying a drink at Guru Jimmy’s Absolut Ashram of Spirituality (2016 Absolut Art Bar), Art Central will have guests lingering as they enjoy Art Central’s take on flavour and style.

New this year is the fair’s first exhibition of digital, new media and performance art supported by Official Champagne Partner, G.H. Mumm. MEDIA X MUMM features five daring and thought-provoking new media art installations with strong thematic elements that challenge visitors to explore the realms of new media art and question perceptions of artistic expression. The experimental art space The Container, a contemporary gallery in Nakameguro, Tokyo, has been replicated and constructed in the Street Food area. One of the four specially curated projects is Jack McLean’s Empty Headed Landscapes which presents works from three different, nonetheless related, bodies of work that include large-scale drawings and live performance. The theme of his work is acceptance of the futility of human endeavour, a delight in the absurdity of the human species and an emphasis on humour as a collective point of access.

Another new addition to the fair, SCREEN X EXPERIMENTA is curated by Hong Kong’s own Gina Wong and presents a diverse program of experimental and narrative film from emerging talent from Asia and the world. Screened for one hour each day of the fair, three different thematic streams – World Drama, Poetry and Stage – explore a diverse range of curatorial themes and techniques in experimental cinema and promise to challenge and entertain audiences.

A site for discovery and education, Art Central has provided a platform for some of the region’s most active non-profit spaces, publications and curators, to develop programming that engages the fairgoer in fun and sometimes challenging ways. New for 2016 is 4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art (Sydney) hosting ROUNDTABLE X 4A, a series of discussions, interviews, and performances that focus on artistic and curatorial practices from across Asia and the Pacific. The interactive program also features new performances by artists Frances Barrett, Abdullah M.I. Syed and Latai Taumoepea, each of which reflect on the context of contemporary art in Asia. The Flying Buck by Abdullah M.I. Syed brings to the fore inherent narratives of institutionalism, capitalism and consumer culture, particularly in the context of the art market and the force of economic powers within.

Tickets to Art Central are available for sale online via HK Ticketing with two for one on advanced tickets available now.

Art Central Management Team:
Fair Director Maree Di Pasquale was Co-Fair Director of the inaugural Art Central. Previously Maree worked as Assistant Director of the Melbourne Art Fair and the first edition of Sydney Contemporary. She has also worked with TDIC on Abu Dhabi Art and the Saadiyat Island Cultural District museums project.

Board of Directors:
Tim Etchells, Sandy Angus, Will Ramsay and Charles Ross together founded the inaugural Art Central. The same team together founded ART HK in 2008, which quickly became a major fixture of the international art world, prior to Art Basel acquiring the Fair in 2011.

Tim Etchells went on subsequently to found Art16 in London and Sydney Contemporary in 2013. He also managed and operated Melbourne Art Fair in 2014.

Sandy Angus is a Director of India Art Fair and co-founded Istanbul’s newest art fair, ArtInternational in 2013. He co–founded Art16 in London and in 2014 founded Photo Shanghai, the first international art fair dedicated to photography in Asia-Pacific.

Will Ramsay is the founder of the PULSE Art Fairs which are staged annually in New York and Miami.  He is a Director of India Art Fair and also founder of the Affordable Art Fairs, which are staged in a variety of cities across the world.

Art Central Managing Director, Charles Ross was also Managing Director of ART HK since the fair’s inception in 2007. He played a pivotal role in ART HK’s collaboration with Art Basel, and has been Managing Director of Art16 in London since its inception.

First Night
Monday 21 March                           5.00pm – 9:00pm

VIP Preview
Tuesday 22 March                          10:00am – 6:00pm
Wednesday 23 March                    11:00am – 12:00pm
Thursday 24 March                        11:00am – 12:00pm

Public Opening Hours
Wednesday 23 March                    12:00pm – 7:00pm
Thursday 24 March                        12:00pm – 7:00pm
Friday 25 March                              11:00am – 7:00pm
Saturday 26 March                         11:00am – 6:00pm 

Selection Committee:
Angela Li, Contemporary by Angela Li (Hong Kong), Cho Jeong Yeol, GALLERY HYUNDAI (Seoul), Christa Schübbe, Schuebbe Inc (Düsseldorf), Conny Dietzschold, Conny Dietzschold Gallery (Sydney), and Richard Koh, Richard Koh Fine Art (Kuala Lumpur).

Follow Art Central
www.artcentralhongkong.com
Facebook: /artcentralhk
Instagram: /artcentralhk
Twitter: /artcentralhk

Online Preview
The opportunity to preview works at the fair will be available online exclusively at Artsy.net from Wednesday 16 March 2016. Artsy’s dedicated Art Central microsite and app will feature works available for sale at the fair, as well as fair highlights picked by art world insiders and a complete schedule of onsite talks and events.

Art Central’s ‘First Night’ is one of the hottest tickets in town

In just one week, the second edition of Art Central will be unveiled during Hong Kong Art Week. Adding a fresh new dimension, Art Central kicks off with ‘First Night’ which gives collectors and art enthusiasts a first glimpse of the fair.

Art Central returns to the Central Harbourfront from 23-26 March (First Night 21 March, VIP Preview 22 March), showcasing over 100 galleries from 21 countries with 75% hailing from greater Asia. A fair with a distinctly Asian edge, the gallery list is complemented by an ambitious program that includes large-scale installations, engaging panel discussions and performance art, along with some of Hong Kong’s hottest eateries. A site of discovery for both art lovers and seasoned collectors alike, Art Central 2016 is set to raise the bar with Hong Kong’s most dynamic art fair experience.

Maree Di Pasquale, Fair Director, says “The inaugural Art Central cemented itself as a highlight of the annual art calendar, exceeding expectations on all fronts. Embraced both locally and internationally, Art Central has helped to further establish Hong Kong as a global arts destination, with an Art Week that rivals the likes of London, Paris and Miami.”

“Art Central 2016 will present a strong selection of museum quality works alongside some of the most exciting emerging artists from the region and around the world. With increased representation from Asia and an expanded public program that promises to engage and entertain, Art Central has everyone from the art-loving public to the seasoned collector in mind”.

Art Central’s ‘First Night’ will offer a first glimpse of the fair from 5pm – 9pm on Monday 21 March, and will mark the first time the fair opens to the public at night. Tickets (available via artcentralhongkong.com) give visitors a chance to celebrate the launch of the fair’s second edition with an evening of art and performance set against the magnificent backdrop of the iconic Victoria Harbour.

Also new for 2016 are three curated projects, MEDIA X MUMM in partnership with G.H Mumm Champagne,ROUNDTABLE X 4A (curated by 4A Centre for Contemporary Art, Sydney) and SCREEN X EXPERIMENTA(curated by Gina Wong Director of Experimenta, Hong Kong). Projects present new media, digital, and live art (MEDIA X MUMM); an engaging discussion, interactive roundtable and performance series (ROUNDTABLE X 4A); and a curated platform for emerging experimental and narrative motion picture filmmakers (SCREEN X EXPERIMENTIA).

“Along with a strong line up of galleries that includes many new leading international names, Art Central also plays host to some of Art Week’s best restaurants and bars as it highlights the social element of Art Week” said Maree.

The fair’s second edition showcases Hong Kong’s hottest new eatery Belon, the neo-Parisian bistro helmed by the rising culinary star, James Henry. Also new to the fair is the MEDIA X MUMM CHAMPAGNE BAR by official Champagne partner, G.H.Mumm, and an expanded Street Food area which includes the 2016 Absolut Art Bar (The Absolut Ashram of Guru Jimmy).

Tickets to Art Central are available for sale online via HK Ticketing with two for one on advanced tickets available for a limited time only.

Art Central Management Team:
Fair Director Maree Di Pasquale was Co-Fair Director of the inaugural Art Central. Previously Maree worked as Assistant Director of the Melbourne Art Fair and the first edition of Sydney Contemporary. She has also worked with TDIC on Abu Dhabi Art and the Saadiyat Island Cultural District museums project.

Board of Directors:
Tim Etchells, Sandy Angus, Will Ramsay and Charles Ross together founded the inaugural Art Central. The same team together founded ART HK in 2008, which quickly became a major fixture of the international artworld, prior to Art Basel acquiring the Fair in 2011.

Tim Etchells went on subsequently to found Art13 London and Sydney Contemporary in 2013. He has also managed and operated Melbourne Art Fair since 2014.

Sandy Angus is a Director of India Art Fair and co-founded Istanbul’s newest art fair, ArtInternational in 2013. He co–founded Art13 London and in 2014 founded Photo Shanghai, the first international art fair dedicated to photography in Asia-Pacific.

Will Ramsay is the founder of the PULSE Art Fairs which are staged annually in New York and Miami.  He is a Director of India Art Fair and also founder of the Affordable Art Fairs, which are staged in a variety of cities across the world.
Art Central Managing Director, Charles Ross was also Managing Director of ART HK since the fair’s inception in 2007. He played a pivotal role in ART HK’s collaboration with Art Basel, and has been Managing Director of Art16 London since its inception.

First Night
Monday 21 March                          5.00pm – 9:00pm

VIP Preview
Tuesday 22 March                          10:00am – 6:00pm
Wednesday 23 March                    11:00am – 12:00pm
Thursday 24 March                        11:00am – 12:00pm

Public Opening Hours
Wednesday 23 March                    12:00pm – 7:00pm
Thursday 24 March                        12:00pm – 7:00pm
Friday 25 March                              11:00am – 7:00pm
Saturday 26 March                         11:00am – 6:00pm

Follow Art Central
http://www.artcentralhongkong.com
Facebook:  /artcentralhk
Instagram: /artcentralhk
Twitter: /artcentralhk

Online Preview
The opportunity to preview works at the fair will be available online exclusively at Artsy.net from Wednesday 16 March 2016. Artsy’s dedicated Art Central microsite and app will feature works available for sale at the fair, as well as fair highlights picked by art world insiders and a complete schedule of onsite talks and events.

STRONG INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITOR LINE-UP & OVER 3,000 ARTWORKS AT THE ASIA CONTEMPORARY ART SHOW
Opens with a VIP Collectors Preview on Thursday March 24th

Hong Kong, Wednesday March 9th, 2016: The 8th edition of the very popular and successful Asia Contemporary Art Show opens in two weeks with an invitation-only VIP Collectors Preview on Thursday March 24th, followed by three days open to the public on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Show will be held on four floors at the 5-star Conrad Hong Kong, presenting more than 3,000 works of art by 86 exhibitors from 17 countries.

Director Mark Saunderson noted that this is the most important time of the year for art in Hong Kong. “As with previous years, we are expecting many thousands of international visitors to be in town for Hong Kong Art Week and Art Basel Hong Kong, and residents and expatriates to be out in force to see artwork presented across the city.

“Now in its 8th edition, the Asia Contemporary Art Show has established a unique position in the market. We have a loyal and growing following of collectors and art buyers who appreciate our wide selection of works by some of the world’s most interesting and promising artists – from emerging and mid-career artists, to those who have already achieved recognition in private and public collections, and at auction. Visitors to the Show also enjoy meeting with the artists present; this time, we welcome more than 50 artists.”

A number of special events will be presented at the Show:

– Pioneers of premium photography in the high-end portraiture space, Venture Studios will present a display of photographic and digital artworks, and will also offer show visitors the opportunity to take home their own piece of art with themself as the star. Artist and photographer duo Dawn Austin and Rick Reeder will create embellished artwork for individuals, who will then be photographed and the image brought to life on the spot. Venture Studios, Room 4015.

– Acclaimed pen-and-ink artist Jeff Murray from the United Kingdom has created a special selection of new works featuring Asia scenes and themes. Meet the artist and view these works in Room 4304.

– Distinguished Dutch visual artist and photographer Wessel Huisman will also present a new body of work featuring Hong Kong themes, painted especially for the VIP Lounge at the Asia Contemporary Art Show. Meet the artist in the VIP Lounge, Room 4326.

– Art lovers and collectors are invited to participate in a special social media campaign to celebrate the 8th edition of the Asia Contemporary Art Show. Using creative ways to post the number “8” and to share using hashtags #asiacontemporaryartshow, #pose8post8 and #hkartweek, participants have the opportunity to win complimentary tickets to the show, and a grand prize of an original painting.

The Asia Contemporary Art Show would like to acknowledge and thank arts patrons Macey and Sons Auctioneers and Valuers Ltd, Venture Studios, Fiji Water and Langton’s Hong Kong; as well as hospitality partners Samuel Adams, Leaf Tea Boutique and Arissto for their support.

Tickets for the Asia Contemporary Art Show are now available for HK$220 (buy one and bring a friend for free) at http://www.hkticketing.com. Tickets at the door are HK$220 per person.

Asia Contemporary Art Show Key Facts:

The Show
– Runs from March 24 – 27, 2016, over four floors at the 5‐star Conrad Hong Kong in convenient Pacific Place
– Features over 3,000 artworks present by more than 80 exhibiting galleries
– Artworks from talented emerging and mid‐career artists, through to well‐known artists who have achieved success at auction
– Exhibitors from 17 countries presenting original paintings, limited editions, sculpture and photography
– More than 50 artists present at the Show
– Opens with an invitation-only VIP Collectors Preview on Thursday March 24, and continues Friday, Saturday and Sunday. “Friday ART Night” on Friday March 25

Online
– Hong Kong’s largest art website www.asiacontemporaryart.com presents more than 7,500 artworks, updated daily
– Original paintings, limited editions, sculpture and photography by 1,200 artists from 50 countries around the world
– Collectors and art lovers can visit the site to discover works of art, learn about artists and galleries, see prices, make inquiries, set up appointments for the Show, and buy works to “beat the rush”
– After the Show, users can continue discovering and buying art 24/7, all year round
-“Art Alert” emails alert buyers to new artworks on the site