Hong Kong is a forward-thinking world city, vibrant and on the move. Recognized for the sense of non-stop lifestyle, even in places and moments where all seems calm, Hong Kong identifies itself with the choices and opportunities it offers. Beyond the monumental banks, beyond the sparkling fashion brands, Hong Kong is now cementing its identity as a great cultural city.
The year calendar of art events is full. In spite of the reputation of Hongkongers as outrageously busy people, numerous events such art walks, festivals, auctions, fairs and gallery openings draw a conspicuous crowd. The celebrated Art HK art fair has undoubtedly contributed to the city’s growth as an art centre, but other important developments will sustain its energy. With the progresses of the West Kowloon Cultural District and its contemporary art museum, M+ (scheduled to open in 2017), the renovation of the Central Police Station site home to new exhibition venues (due to open in 2014), and the opening of the Asia Society’s new space in Hong Kong earlier this year, the city is gaining new world class cultural and exhibition premises.
In addition to this there are the significant changes taking place in the industrial district of Chai Wan. Only 15 minutes taxi ride from Central and connected on the Island Line of the MTR, this newly developing area provides accommodation to alternative aspects of the cultural scene in Hong Kong. First on site was the well-known 10 Chancery Lane Gallery Annex launching its warehouse in 2006. Today Chai Wan is becoming home to architecture and design studios, showrooms, restaurants, bookstores and art spaces recalling that same energy as Beijing 798 Art District back at the beginning of the Noughties. Positive vibes inhabit the area while a new energy is ready to burst. Despite its crude appearance, which differentiates from the business-obsessed atmosphere in Central, the industrial area boasts large spaces, tall ceilings and open sea views giving exciting prospects for art events.
This particular environment perfectly matches with Platform China’s activities and philosophy this is why the decision to locate our new project space in Chai Wan is significant. Our pioneering move and choice to make our beginning in a district that is shaping its own individuality meets our vision as well as intuition for alternatives. Starting from this coming May, Platform China (HK) will open a season of vibrant projects and events. We will keep you posted on progress!
Claudia Albertini: An active player on the Chinese art scene for many years, our International Relations Manager Claudia is now at the Direction of Platform China's new space in Hong Kong...why Hong Kong?
