Artbridger's inaugural residency exhibition at Soho House Hong Kong showcases the culmination of an intensive eight-week creative journey. Selected emerging artists, supported by dedicated studio space and professional mentorship, present works that reflect both individual artistic growth and collective innovation. The exhibition represents a vibrant dialogue between diverse artistic practices, fostered through the unique environment of Soho House's creative community. Visitors will experience new perspectives in contemporary art while supporting emerging talents as they launch their careers through Artbridger's global platform.
The residency & exhibition at Soho House Hong Kong marks a significant moment in nurturing emerging artistic talent. Over eight intensive weeks, selected artists have developed their practice within dedicated studio spaces, supported by professional mentorship and a creative stipend. The exhibition presents the fruits of this transformative period, showcasing works that push boundaries and explore new artistic territories.
Throughout their residency, these artists have been immersed in Soho House's dynamic community, engaging in workshops, artist talks, and collaborative projects. This rich environment of cross-cultural dialogue and creative exchange has fostered new perspectives and approaches in their work. The resulting exhibition reflects not only individual artistic journeys but also the collective spirit of innovation that defines the Artbridger program.
As a launchpad for emerging talents, this exhibition represents more than a showcase - it's a gateway to the global art market. Featured works will be available for purchase through Artbridger's online gallery, connecting these artists with collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. The exhibition embodies Artbridger's commitment to supporting artistic development while building bridges between emerging artists and the broader art community.
12:30 - 1:00 pm
1. Opening Seminar: “No way to be good” HONG Wai
Led by: HONG Wai and Professor LEI Chin Pang
Focus: Cantonese popular culture and bridging Eastern and Western artistic traditions
1:30 - 2 pm
2. Residency introduction: “The True Value of Art”
Curated by: Franco Savadori
Focus: Showcasing works from the 19th century masters, emphasizing the dialogue between contemporary practices and historical influences, introducing the residency artists with a focus on Hong Kong’s prestigious talent, William Tong.
2:30 - 3 pm
3. Masterclass: Innovative Techniques in Mixed Media, Contemporary Ink and Digital Art
Led by: Mediha Ting
Focus: Exploring themes of cultural identity, displacement, and global perspectives
4. Seminar: Navigating the Asian Art Scene
Led by: Francesco Lietti
Focus: Insights from projects and the artist’s career including details about Lietti’s successful practices in Asian metropolises and an introduction to the artist’s works on display in association with Novalis Art and Design. During the residency, as part of his mentorship, Lietti will be painting a canvas from his earlier series “Colors of Asia” that will be on display during the residency exhibition.
5. Workshop: African Contemporary Art in Context
Led by: Lee Garakara, Mwimibi Fine Art
Focus: Diving into the depths of the African aesthetics with a presentation of South African contemporary artist Fumani Maluleke
6. Performance: Maria Marshall and Sophia the humanoid robot
Led by: Maria Marshall
Focus: Performance Painting with Machine Learning. Exploring the intersection of human consciousness and AI in artistic processes presented by Artbridger x Hanson Robotics with Maria Marshall and in association with Dr Gustavo Medina Tanco from UNAM
21st March, 12:30 - 1:30 pm
9. Closing Exhibition: “No way to be good” HONG Wai
Led by: HONG Wai and Professor LEI Chin Pang
Focus: Cantonese popular culture and bridging Eastern and Western artistic traditions
21st March, 2 - 3 pm
10. Residency Closing: “The True Value of Art”
Curated by: Franco Savadori
Focus: Showcasing works from the 19th century masters, emphasizing the dialogue between contemporary practices and historical influences, introducing the residency artists with a focus on Hong Kong’s prestigious talent, William Tong.
21st March, 4 - 5 pm
11. Masterclass: Innovative Techniques in Mixed Media, Contemporary Ink and Digital Art
Led by: Mediha Ting
Focus: Exploring themes of cultural identity, displacement, and global perspectives
I am honored to present "The True Value of Art," a landmark exhibition that marks the culmination of Artbridger's groundbreaking residency program at Soho House Hong Kong. This showcase emerges at the intersection of artistic heritage and contemporary innovation, drawing inspiration from the rich lineage spanning 19th-century art through German Expressionism—movements that have profoundly shaped my curatorial vision.
Read the Foreword from Francesco Savordi