In Hong Kong you can tell a lot about an event or opening by who sends flowers. The custom is a way of showing respect for business partners, hopeful business partners, and friends. At the opening of the KAWS exhibition at the Perrotin gallery on May 15th, there were flowers sent by some pretty impressive names.
A quick glance on the way to the elevator revealed floral arrangements from Kevin Poon from CLOT, TK from Silly Thing, and nightlife kingpin Gilbert Yeung, among others.
[photopress:kaws_art_hong_kong_galerie_perrotin_HK.jpg,full,pp_image]The KAWS exhibition christened the brand new Galerie Perrotin, which is the Parisian art dealer’s first expansion into Asia. The large new space was over-flowing on opening night with a who’s who of Hong Kong’s creative community.
[photopress:perrotin_hong_kong_art_gallery_address_hk.jpg,full,pp_image]From top executives at luxury brands, to prominent members of local bands, there was a cross section of the city’s scene packed into the gallery space. (Among others: Sam Lee, Edison, Brian Siswojo, Fed, TK, Kevin Poon, the Hypebeast gang, Simon Birch, Andre Fu, Jason, Takashi Murakami, and Suitman.)
The turnout was a testament to how KAWS’ work transcends boundaries and is embraced by various types of art enthusiasts.
[photopress:kaws_nature_of_need_perrotin_hong_kong.jpg,full,pp_image] [photopress:kaws_galerie_perrotin_hong_kong_art_HK.jpg,full,pp_image] [photopress:perrotin_art_gallery_hong_kong_hk_kaws.jpg,full,pp_image]Looking around the room, many of the familiar faces were at KAWS’ first appearance in Hong Kong over a decade ago. It’s exciting to see Hong Kong’s scene evolve to what it has become – truthfully more like a New York or Tokyo.
A visitor from Beijing attending the opening was blown away by the sophistication and international vibe in the room. It wasn’t always like this, and there are still areas that need work, but the city has moved forwards in giant steps over the last ten years.
Perhaps the dream of Hong Kong becoming an art capital – once laughable just a few years ago, is really on its way.
Recommended!
KAWS – The Nature of Need
Now through June 30th, 2012
Galerie Perrotin
17th Floor, 50 Connaught Road
Central, Hong Kong
Check out KAWS 2010 exhibition in Hong Kong here!
