It's officially Hong Kong Art Gallery Week, organised by the Hong Kong Art Gallery Association which consists of over 50 members, whose mission is to "advance the Hong Kong art gallery community by providing one voice to its members, reaching out to the local and international art communities, and helping deepen market knowledge and best practices." You can find them on Facebook here!
Hong Kong has a fast-growing art market, with record sales constantly made at Sotheby's and Christie's auction houses, the launch of Art Basel this year, and the arrival of many international galleries.
It is therefore incongruent that there is not more of a 'gallery culture' amongst Hong Kong's residents. People are often intimidated by the white cubes and rarely venture into galleries, afraid that a lack of art knowledge or intent to buy would be judged or unwelcome. This art week gives the public the feeling of 'safety in numbers,' and to encourage exploration of art and its appreciation, even if the viewer has no interest in collecting.
Galleries have organised lectures and fun activities, and opened their doors wide open for all to enjoy. As expressed in an interview with one of the organisers, "We want people to see why it's important to have art, and to see how much visual art can give depth to a person, a society, and a city."
Today was a beautiful day to be strolling the streets and popping into galleries. My friends and I made our way from Sheung Wan into Central, making a pitstop in Soho for a lazy brunch along the route. The gallery owners were eager to introduce us to their collections and the artists they represent, and the sheer diversity of the art ensures that everyone can find their own piece of inspiration somewhere.
You can find a detailed map with locations and event descriptions here, or click after the jump for more photos and a list of my personal favourite galleries!