Exhibition Series: Imagined States｜WOAW Gallery Exhibition Introduction

A thought-provoking exhibition series “Imagined States” showcases a visual exploration of cultural self-identification across various gallery locations in Hong Kong

Talia Levitt, Not Too Cool Yet, 2023. Acrylic on Canvas. 121.9 x 152.4 cm. Courtesy of WOAW Gallery and the artist.

This November, WOAW Gallery is pleased to present a series of exhibitions, along with an academic panel discussion, on the visual exploration of cultural selfidentification. At various gallery locations throughout Hong Kong from November 16, 2023 – January 17, 2024, the exhibition series “Imagined States” showcases over 20 recent paintings of 12 acclaimed international artists, offering a thought-provoking journey through two distinct chapters: Chapter 1 – “Extrinsicality” and Chapter 2 – “Intrinsicality”. As a culmination of this exciting event, an engaging academic panel discussion will be held delving into the intricate themes and concepts behind the artwork.

Taking place at the gallery spaces in Wan Chai and Central, the exhibition series “Imagined States” showcases the artistic process of empowering metaphors through which humanity constructs and locates itself within realms, places, and territories of the mind. In the realm of art, artists do not seek to depict accuracy, but to present a version of the truth based on their unique visualization of the world. They change their surroundings through various mediums, palettes, and techniques, as they seek to express their truth by engaging with our senses, our memories, and our emotions. Through their works, each artist illustrates what exists beyond words as they unfold their personal truth before our very eyes, inviting us to reexamine our own truths.

Peter Chan, Study of Anticipation 1, 2023. Oil on Paper. 32 x 27cm. Courtesy of WOAW Gallery and the artists.

“Imagined States”: Chapter 1 – “Extrinsicality”

Titled “Extrinsicality”, referring to something that exists externally from someone or something, the first chapter of the exhibition series will commence at WOAW Gallery Wan Chai. From November 16, 2023 to January 17, 2023, the exhibition breaks down our fundamental perception of reality through visual distortion. Each artist employs a variety of artistic techniques, from trompe l'oeil to calligraphic marks, from airbrushing to displaced cultural iconography, as they challenge our understanding of our surroundings. Their works encourage us not to simply accept things at first glance, and prompts us to consider the endless possibilities of the universe.

Artists featured in “Extrinsicality” include American artist Lauren Hussey, whose multidimensional compositions are filled with an array of illegible text, scribbled calligraphic marks, and sporadic ink blots to offer viewers a riveting visual experience. Her dynamic patterns engage with our innate desire to make sense of our surroundings as she challenges our subconscious understanding of the visual lexicon. Another artist participating in “Extrinsicality” is Chinese-Canadian artist Peter Chan. Showcasing his new series ‘Magic Windows’, Chan presents a surrealistic study of the illusory nature of media, aiming to highlight its role in the shaping of cultural identities. His striking blue, green, and purple framed screens explore the formation of social mentalities by dissecting the role of perception within social and visual culture.

Blake Daniels, Johannesburg Street Dogs or The Assumption of Lerato, 2022. Oil on linen. 170 x 150 cm. Courtesy of WOAW Gallery and the artists.

“Imagined States”: Chapter 2 – “Intrinsicality”

The second chapter, "Intrinsicality," refers to something that is natural and inherent, and takes place at the gallery’s Central location from November 29, 2023 to January 17, 2023. In this chapter, the focus shifts inward as artists invite viewers to perceive their personal truths. Through the weaving together of intimate memories and unique stories, each artist presents their personal landscape, mediating their emotions and identity in the world. This immersive experience allows both the artists and the audience to reflect on their sense of self and engage in a shared contemplation of identity.

Propelling the “Intrinsicality” chapter is Korean artist Miyeon Yi, who negotiates ideas of freedom, death, and ennui based on her own experience with her great-grandmother. Her atmospheric works illustrate a continuous push and pull between the anxiety of living empty lives and the hopeful desire to transform the world that we live in. Presenting alongside Yi is American artist Blake Daniels. His evocative paintings are a collision of personal, historical, social, and political memories, as Daniels draws inspiration from traditions of cultural practices and storytelling. He intertwines his experiences with vivid colors, art histories, and religious iconography in a celebration of his understanding of the world through memory.

Academic Panel Discussion

During the exhibition series, the academic panel discussion will delve deeper into the intricate themes and concepts behind the artwork showcased in the "Imagined States". Hosted virtually, this panel provides an opportunity for deeper exploration and analysis of the ideas presented by the participating artists. Guests are also invited to share their own perceptions and thoughts regarding the exhibition, starting conversations that further foster the relationship between artwork and audience. Further details will be announced on the gallery’s social media platforms.

Exhibition Details

• Exhibition Series: Imagined States
• Chapter 1: “Extrinsicality”
• Location: 3 & 5, Sun Street Wan Chai, Hong Kong
• Date: November 16, 2023 – January 17, 2024

• Chapter 2: “Intrinsicality"
• Location: G07, The Galleria, 9 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
• Date: November 29, 2023 – January 17, 2024

Source of the above information: PR