The Venice Biennale is one of the world's most prestigious and influential international art exhibitions.
Its decentralized structure is a powerful testament to its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and this year's 60th edition, entitled "Foreigners Everywhere," is curated by the acclaimed Adriano Pedrosa.
Isaac Chong Wai, an exceptional talent from Hong Kong who attended Baptist University and currently based in Berlin was among the carefully selected artists invited to participate in the main exhibition. His artistic practice covers performance, video, installation, photography and drawing.
His magnificent performance piece captivated and engaged audiences, earning widespread acclaim as dancers of Asian origin move through carefully choreographed sequences to protect each other as they fall in an emotionally tense show of solidarity.
The Hong Kong Arts Development Council and M+ opened our Hong Kong Pavilion, which showcased another outstanding local artist's unique site-specific body of work.
In "Trevor Yeung's Courtyard of Attachments, Hong Kong in Venice," Trevor Yeung, also from Baptist University, draws on his life experiences growing up here, including those at his father's seafood restaurant, feng shui influences and with his childhood pet fish.
Using carefully created works, objects, images and installations, he presents compelling stories exploring the dynamics of everyday encounters.
His work provides a fresh and distinctive outlook on how we coexist as individuals. His approach is thoughtful and perceptive, delving into the intricate aspects of our everyday lives.
Another young talent, Olivia Chow, an assistant curator of visual art at M+, thoughtfully and sensitively curated Yeung's exhibition.
Her deep understanding of his practice has significantly contributed to this year's Hong Kong Pavilion.
In 2019, she gained valuable experience as a curatorial team member at the Hong Kong Pavilion in Venice.
Our participation in Venice is not just about showcasing art but cultivating emerging local artists and curators, engaging new audiences, and establishing an influential cultural presence for Asia in the contemporary art world.
I extend heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to these talented artists for their outstanding contributions to the biennale and raising awareness of the creative energy emerging in Hong Kong.
Bernard Charnwut Chan is chairman of Tai Kwun Culture & Arts Co Ltd
An artist, Brazil's Manauara Clandestin, at the entrance to the main pavilion of the Venice Biennale.
