Pixelated Chronicles: Tales of Hong Kong Outlying Islands
Opening Reception
22 Aug 2024
6:30-8:30pm
6:30-8:30pm
Pixelated Chronicles: Tales of Hong Kong Outlying Islands
Wyndham Social gladly presents Pixelated Chronicles: Tales of Hong Kong Outlying Islands in collaboration with Project: As If___.
The term "pixel" originates from the combination of "pix" (pictures) and "el(ement)" and is used to describe the smallest unit in a digital image. Much like urban planning, every spatial moment can be seen as colors and fragments of the city; up close, it appears mottled, while from afar, it reveals infinite possibilities for extension and interpretation. Further layer with the dimension of time, the information compressed in each space silently records the trajectory of our urban development and scripts future possibilities.
This exhibition starts with the hidden stories of Hong Kong’s islands, drawing on Aldo Rossi’s framework of urban studies and Brian McGrath’s concept of “islands as urban artifacts” to seek exploration in lands away from the gaps of the city. It discusses how islands, as city pixels, challenge traditional development concepts, awaken memories forgotten by time, and inspire reflection on how the city should be shaped by everyone who cherishes this land.
About the Artist
Project: As If___ is a design and research group founded by the architect duo Leroy Cheng and Vanessa Ma. Both of them graduated from the University of Hong Kong with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Architecture. Vanessa furthered her studies at the University of the Arts London, earning a Master’s degree in Photojournalism and Documentary Photography. Their practice is rooted in the professional field of architecture and aspires to explore beyond to the intersection between visual and spatial design. Trained as architects over the past decade, they strive to challenge the definition of architecture by venturing beyond conventional presentations, addressing essential social issues through innovative media and multiforms of representations.
Their ongoing key project, "Pixelated Chronicles," examines the essence of "Hong Kong" as a metropolis by cutting in through the often-forgotten islands and their historical and cultural legacy. This project highlights their commitment to exploring the city's unique identity and addressing the tension between sustainability and development needs and has been recognized by HKIA CPD Research Fund and Design Trust.
