Art Journal #34: HK Pavilion - proud!

Excited to see Pak Sheung Cheun's work in Venice. Have obviously seen a selection of it before at Vitamin in GZ. But had to say with the space constraints, the Venice site didnt do some of the old works justice, eg, the few NYPLP works can be better shown if there were more space so the concept comes out more fully. I also heard some felt that there's too many concepts/works on display, and hence dilute the show - which I tend to agree. But I dont agree with that you need a "HK context" to get Pak's work - if anything, his work is more universal than most.

That aside, I do like the new works, many of which are created just for Venice, in line with Pak's style to do site-specific pieces. The "my weight in stones" wire/stone installation is visually pleasing, where Pak continues to explore relationship with himself (his body in particular!). The hanging grapes delightfully blend in with the mesh over a corner of the courtyard where there are real grape leaves, plus now Pak's fake "black balloons as grapes". The "darkening map" of Venice was poetic - and again the blend of performance, discipline (the works took days of walking!) is interesting.

Had to say the exhibiting location was great - just opposite the entrance to the Arsenale, so everyone will pass by. Apparently it was Singapore's site before. Now taken over by HK! A few year leases, should be extended soon, so the architecture show of HK will be here too next year.
Really great to see government officials turning up (Danny Lau, So Kam Shing) and showing support. ADC put quite a lot of resources into the show as well - from the pre-show drinks, to the official celebration dinner (which has a great turnout with 90!). Sat next to Zhang Wei, William Lim and opposite Uli Sigg - cant ask for more! Also connected with curator Tobias Berger (which I missed at the NJP Art Center last time) - and hope to see him in Korea soon!