ISSUE NO.8
italiancham MAGAZINE
Re-create & Re-stART The future of Art BUSINESS FOCUS
COVER STORY
HIGHLIGHTS
Cross-border e-commerce in China
Arts bring us closer together than ever
Italian National Day 2020
Publisher The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong e Macao 19/F, 168 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Tel +852 2521 8837 email icc@icc.org.hk www.icc.org.hk Designer Michela Compagnoni Editorial Team Maria Teresa Brusco Silvia N’Guessan Federico Patelli Rajib Hussain
YOUR CHOICE 470 lawyers 11 offices worldwide 20 specialist practice areas 7 desks dedicated to specific geographical regions
gop.it
Swiss Quality since 1960
International Tax Planning and Corporate Advisory services
Fidinam (Hong Kong) Limited Room 1501, Prosperity Tower, 39 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong www.fidinamgw.com info@fidinamgw.com
Contents President’s Memo
5
Business Focus
6
Art, Culture and More
14
Cover Story
16
Imperfect Cuisine
28
Italian Chats
30
Members Spotlight
32
Highlights
34
What’s On Hong Kong
38
What’s On Macao
40
Great Technology
Technology and experience meet fashion and design
visotticacomotec.com
Chamber’s Patrons 2020
4
LUCA CICO President of The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Macao
President’s memo Dear Members and Friends, As the first half of 2020 comes to a close and we enter into the 3rd quarter of the year, we are at last seeing signs that the effects of COVID-19 are abating. Hong Kong is on the path to recovery, having implemented prompt and robust supporting activities like the Anti-epidemic Funds, and effective social distancing measures. Italy, our loved home country, lifted the national lockdown on June the 3rd and has cleared its citizens for domestic travel. Undeterred by the physical limitations brought by the pandemic, the Chamber has organized a steady stream of events by delivering several informative online webinars. During these interactive events, the participants had the opportunity of exchanging experiences and sharing their learnings on a wide range of topical subjects, including digital marketing, e-commerce and government support measures. We organized also webinars with a special focus on Retail, F&B and Fashion industries. June is the month of the Italian National Day celebration: for this significant occasion, the Chamber invited the members of the Italian community to join My Dear Italia, the initiative consisting of a series of online events themed about Italian culture. The initiative kick off was a social media contest on Facebook and Instagram, encouraging the participants to share their most memorable experiences in Italy. The Chamber also hosted the Quiz Night on 2 June, where the participants were challenged to answer several questions on Italian history, pop culture and art. In both events, the winners were rewarded with fabulous prizes, generously provided by our sponsors – details in the Highlights section. As for our tradition of focusing our magazine on Italian culture, arts and cuisine, in this issue we look at these topics from the perspective of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as how industries involved with the arts have adapted their practices to navigate this unprecedented storm. This issue’s cover stories cover the fine art of food and fragrance industries, as well as museums as representatives of the arts and culture sector. And of course, this issue would not be complete without a taste of Italian culture from our staple Italian Chats and Imperfect Cuisine sections. Last but definitely not least, I wish to thank all our Members, Sponsors and Partners in the local, Italian and global communities for their continued collaboration and support during this tough and critical moment: THANK YOU!
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BUS I N ESS FOC U S
Government Support and Incentives By Tommaso Borgia, Associate Hawksford
T
he Hong Kong Government has launched three rounds of measures
May 25, lasting for three weeks until June 14 – the application details
since the beginning of this year, totaling HK$287.5 billion
for the second tranche are yet to be released. Moreover, under the ESS,
(approximately 10% of its GDP), for the proposed objectives
self-employed persons who have set up an MPF account on or before 31
of helping businesses to stay afloat, keeping workers in employment and
March 2020 may apply for a one-off lump-sum subsidy of HK$7,500.
relieving the financial burdens of individuals and businesses affected by
The Scheme is expected to benefit about 260,000 employers, or some 1.77
the Covid-19 outbreak. Among them, a HK$120 billion relief package was
million employees.
announced in the 2020-21 Budget while a total of HK$167.5 billion was
Other measures available under the second round of the Anti-epidemic
injected into the newly established Anti-epidemic Fund.
Fund worth mentioning include the Distance Business Programme (“D-Biz
Under the first round of the Anti-epidemic Fund approve by the Legislative
Programme”), launched by the Government to support enterprises in
Council on 21 February 2020 – for which HK$30 billion was allocated –
maintaining their businesses and services during the epidemic through
the Government has established, among others, the Retail Sector Subsidy
adoption of IT solutions. Each applicant can submit one application
Scheme to target businesses which sell goods at physical locations to the
with no more than three IT solutions among 12 categories. The D-Biz
public for personal or household consumption. A sum of HK$5.6 billion
Programme’s funding ceiling is set at HK$100,000 per selected IT
was earmarked under the Scheme’s funds to benefit some 70,000 retailers,
solution. In other words, each enterprise can receive total funding of up
through a one-off subsidy of HK$80,000 for each store which is capped at
to HK$300,000. The application period began on 18 May and will remain
a maximum of HK$3 million per retail group (equivalent to no more than
open until 31 October 2020.
38 stores). For the F&B industry, the Food License Holders Subsidy Scheme was established with a total fund allocation of $3.7 billion. A one-off subsidy of HK$200,000 was provided to eligible license holders of premises currently in operation, including restaurants, marine restaurants and factory canteens. Meanwhile, a subsidy of HK$80,000 was provided to eligible
Hawksford Corporate Services Hong Kong Limited is a global leading financial services consulting firm. It provides a complete suite of services that span all aspects of setup and ongoing company administration.
license holders of operating light refreshment restaurants, fresh provision shops, food factories, bakeries and siu mei and lo mei shops.
Bringing more than 10 years’ experience, we facilitate businesses worldwide to tap into the Asian emerging markets by ensuring comprehensively that statutory and regulatory compliance of the companies are met. With its personalized and competitively priced services, Hawksford strives to provide each of its clients a strategic advantage in the market in which it operates. We’ve helped companies in a wide range of industries from manufacturing, retail, tech, innovation, trade and luxury fashion. In order to ensure a seamless service fine tuned to the specific regulatory, business and cultural aspects of the country of origin of its clients, Hawksford employs as account managers professionals with different languages skills from Spanish to English, from German to Italian. With 200 staff across Asia and 450 globally, based in different offices, our people are experienced, highly qualified and multi-lingual covering over 20 nationalities and 22 languages. Our ingrained culture of entrepreneurialism means we are perfectly positioned to work with ambitious entrepreneurs, multinational companies and SMEs, partnering with you for growth and helping you make the most of your commercial decisions and business objectives. We have the local knowledge to help you navigate your business.
On 8 April 2020, the Government announced a HK$137.5 billion package for the second round of relief measures under the Anti-epidemic Fund. This included a HK$80 billion Employment Support Scheme (ESS) to help employers retain employees and avoid redundancies. The subsidy is capped at HK$9,000 per month (50% of HK$18,000, the monthly median wage in Q2 of 2019) per employee for six months, to be paid in two tranches. The first tranche will provide wage subsidies for three months from June to August 2020, while the second tranche will be disbursed in September 2020 and cover wages until November. Each employee can choose any one month from December 2019 to March 2020 as their “specified month” as basis for calculating the subsidy amount. The subsidy comes with two main requirements for eligible employers, namely not to implement redundancy during the subsidy period and to spend all the government subsidies on paying wages to their employees.
hawksford.com
The application for the first tranche of wage subsidies commenced on *Since the publication of this article the Hong Kong Government may have updated or changed some of the outlined relief measures. 6
B USI N ESS FOCU S
Three keys to ensure enterprise resilience in turbulent times By Grant Jamieson, Partner and Head of Advisory, Hong Kong, KPMG China
T
he COVID-19 pandemic has affected every element of business,
and facilities. Legal and regulatory implications are also certain. Companies
from the robustness of supply chains to the stability of the
that demonstrate strong operational resilience are the ones who will be able
financial markets, the availability of the labour force and the
to withstand these operational shocks and continue to deliver their core
vitality of customer demand. In this unpredictable environment, one of
business.
the keys to business survival – and to future success – is ensuring resilience throughout the entire enterprise.
3. Commercial resilience
Before the pandemic, businesses were already working hard to maintain
As the COVID-19 pandemic takes its course, and as official responses evolve,
resilience in the face of other fast-moving trends, including disruptive
customer behaviours are changing in ways never seen before. Market access
technologies, extended supply chains and changing customer expectations.
and demand for products and services is changing rapidly, as are customer
Facing COVID-19, businesses must now urgently assess all aspects of their
behaviours, with material shifts in channel usage, often daily, and in several
resilience, hone in on key improvement areas, and keep them under review
different ways at the same time. Businesses in every sector of the economy
to be able to successfully navigate through these difficult times.
are taking dramatic steps to respond to these unprecedented changes. For example, product lines are being streamlined; capacity is being switched to
Below are three key areas for businesses to maintain enterprise resilience:
areas of high demand; and resources are being redirected towards online channels. There has also been increased collaboration between firms to share limited distribution networks. Firms that can successfully monitor,
1. Financial resilience
measure and adapt to changes in demand in markets, channels, products Financial resilience refers to the ability to withstand financial impact on
and services will emerge as winners.
“
liquidity, income and assets. The financial effects of the pandemic are reminiscent of the 2008 financial crisis, but with the stresses extended across every sector of the economy. Previously healthy businesses are suddenly
In this unpredictable environment, one of the keys to business survival – and to future success – is ensuring resilience throughout the entire enterprise. Businesses must now urgently assess all aspects of their resilience, hone in on key improvement areas, and keep them under review to be able to successfully navigate through these difficult times”
coming under acute financial pressure. Keeping financial resilience strong requires companies to adapt existing financial frameworks to a more hostile, volatile environment in which profitability, cash flow and access to finance are coming under simultaneous pressure. Three focus points within this pillar are financial stress testing and forecasting, liquidity and financing, and financial crisis response and contingency planning. 2. Operational resilience COVID-19 has become the single greatest threat to the continuity and existence of many businesses. The maturity of an organisation’s operational resilience now has the very real potential to dictate whether an organisation can survive. Under severe operational stress, organisations will need to make important judgment calls, deciding which products, services and processes should be kept operational. In these circumstances, firms will need to understand their prioritisation criteria, what constitutes the minimum viable business model, and develop a viable recovery strategy. In turn, this will have implications for staff and potentially involve difficult discussions with customers and suppliers and the potential closure of sites
Grant Jamieson, Partner, Head of Advisory, Hong Kong, KPMG China
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BUS I N ESS FOC U S
Source: KPMG China, “COVID-19: A Guide to Maintaining Enterprise Resilience - Hong Kong Edition”, 2020. https://home.kpmg/cn/en/home/ insights/2020/04/covid-19-a-guide-to-maintaining-enterprise-resilience.html
KPMG China is based in 26 offices across 24 cities with around 12,000 partners and staff in Beijing, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Foshan, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Haikou, Hangzhou, Jinan, Nanjing, Ningbo, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Tianjin, Wuhan, Xiamen, Xi’an, Zhengzhou, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR. Working collaboratively across all these offices, KPMG China can deploy experienced professionals efficiently, wherever our client is located. KPMG is a global network of professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 153 countries and territories and have 207,000 people working in member firms around the world. The independent member firms of the KPMG network are affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. In 1992, KPMG became the first international accounting network to be granted a joint venture licence in mainland China. KPMG was also the first among the Big Four in mainland China to convert from a joint venture to a special general partnership, as of 1 August 2012. Additionally, the Hong Kong firm can trace its origins to 1945. This early commitment to this market, together with an unwavering focus on quality, has been the foundation for accumulated industry experience, and is reflected in KPMG’s appointment for multi-disciplinary services (including audit, tax and advisory) by some of China’s most prestigious companies. kpmg.com
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B USI N ESS FOCU S
Business models to choose for doing cross-border e-commerce in China By
D
Rebecca Wong, Tax Partner, PwC China Crystal Liu, Senior Tax Manager, PwC China
uring the past six years from 2014 to 2019, online retail sales is the key driver for China’s retail market growth, reaching over 30% compound annual growth rate according to statistics. Many overseas companies who have not yet had retail footprint in China are speeding up their market entry via cross-border e-commerce as the risks and costs involved are generally lower than setting up a company or have physical
presence in China. There are a lot of commercial, operational and regulatory considerations in conducting cross-border e-commerce, for instance:
Different models will bring different China tax and customs implications as
Model 2: An overseas company sells goods via a cross-border
well as different customer experiences.
e-commerce marketplace
Model 1: An overseas company operates its global website to accept
China-based consumers place orders and make payments online via the
orders from China-based consumers
cross-border e-commerce platform run by marketplaces (such as Tmall Global, Global.jd etc.). The goods may be stored in overseas for shipment
China-based consumers place orders and make payments online via a
upon orders or in bonded warehouses in China. The marketplaces process
global website. The goods are usually couriered from overseas to China and
orders with the designated information connected with the China customs
it takes time for shipment and delivery. The importers (i.e. the consumers)
so that the customs declaration and importation procedures are less
shall pay import taxes, which will be either the so-called ‘postal tax’ ranging
complicated than normal trade. The consumers can enjoy a lower import
from 13%, 20% and 50% depending on product categories; or the ‘general
tax regime, the so-called ‘cross-border e-commerce tax regime’, where
import taxes’ which consist of customs duties, import VAT and import
customs duties are exempt, and import VAT and import consumption tax
consumption tax (i.e. consumption tax is levied only for a few designated
are taxed at 70% of the normal rates. Under the special tax regime, a single
categories).
order shall not be more than RMB 5,000; and the maximum purchase spending by an individual consumer is RMB 26,000 in each calendar year. Please note that currently around 1,400 items are available for sales via this cross-border e-commerce importation policy. 9
BUS I N ESS FOC U S Model 3: Setting up a China company to run both retail stores and website The China retail company imports the goods from overseas (i.e. B2B importation) and pay import taxes (i.e. customs duties, import VAT and import consumption tax at normal rates) under the general trade mode. The China retail company conducts domestic sales via its stores and website. The goods are usually stored in China for fast delivery. The customers can have better experience with a good O2O strategy in place. Under both models 1 and 2, consumers would bear the import taxes effectively; while under model 3 the retailer would bear the import customs duties and import consumption tax (if applicable); and the import VAT would be creditable against the output VAT derived from sales income. In addition, the sales income and trading profit of the seller are kept in an overseas company for models 1 and 2 while that would be kept in a China company under model 3. Hong Kong is commonly chosen as the procurement and e-commerce trading hub in view of its low tax and simple tax system as well as its proximity to connect with mainland China. Companies should thoroughly study the regulations and local citylevel practices in designing an optimal business model. It is important to evaluate the feasibility and tax implications of different operational models; conduct consumer survey to decide the product mix, price strategy and online traffic; budget the relevant costs in working with different parties (such as the charges of marketplaces, payment agents, warehouse and customs agents, etc.).
At PwC, our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We’re a network of firms in 157 countries with over 276,000 people who are committed to delivering quality in assurance, advisory and tax services. Find out more and tell us what matters to you by visiting us at www.pwc. com. PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see www.pwc.com/structure for further details. We provide organisations with the professional service they need, wherever they may be located. Our highly qualified, experienced professionals listen to different points of view to help organisations solve their business issues and identify and maximise the opportunities they seek. Our industry specialisation allows us to help co-create solutions with our clients for their sector of interest. We are located in these cities in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Shenyang, Tianjin, Dalian, Jinan, Qingdao, Zhengzhou, Xi’an, Nanjing, Hefei, Suzhou, Wuhan, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Chongqing, Changsha, Kunming, Xiamen, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Macau and Haikou. pwchk.com
B USI N ESS FOCU S
How to Manage Your Company From Anywhere By Mr Filippo Buzzi, Fidinam
S
ince the beginning of 2020, social distancing has meant working from home for many companies. This is leading to a “business transformation” on multiple levels. Even for small companies, with few internal processes, this shift can prove challenging without solid solutions in cloud computing.
The Economist has recently published an article titled “The nowhere firm – How to manage a business without a headquarters”, mentioning the practice, typically within start-ups, of using online tools and software to run a business outside the office. Fidinam Hong Kong has built inhouse knowledge to help SMEs master this transitioning phase, while ensuring that operations stay up and running.
Working From Home
how does one implement teleworking procedures effectively?
The practice of Working From Home dates back to the 1970s. Nowadays,
To answer this question, Fidinam has developed an implementation strategy
it is quite a common practice worldwide, particularly in the Middle
that involves the integration of three types of cloud tools – all of which are
East, Latin America and Asia. According to a Reuters poll, about 10% of
easy to adopt and enable effective “remote management” of your company.
professionals in these regions have been working from home everyday for
These include online communication platforms (Slack, Skype, Zoom), task
the past decade.
management software (Asana, Scoro, Workzone) and accounting software (FreshBooks, Invoiced, Xero).
For Hong Kong companies, the advantages are clear: less time spent commuting positively impacts employees’ quality of life, reduces rental costs for companies and mitigates negative effects on the environment. But
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BUS I N ESS FOC U S
Employees
External Consultants
Online Communication Tools
Task Management Software
Employees
Managers
Accounting Software
Credit Card Payments
Accountant
Clients
Bank
The roles and benefits of each participant in this implementation strategy
Accountants can access accounting software to accomplish budgetary tasks
are as follows:
without the need for meetings or delivery of physical documents.
Managers are at the core of this strategy, since they must utilize these
External Consultants can access virtual data rooms and channels
cloud tools to manage their staff in various ways. For instance, tasks will be
established within online communication platforms to cooperate with the
assigned through online communication tools, deadlines are set up through
management team and company employees.
task planning software, and decision-making processes will be influenced based on financial data obtained through accounting software.
Within this process, a robust and user-friendly accounting software is of critical importance – particularly one is capable of automatically connecting
Employees see their communication efficiency increased by messaging
with most banks in Hong Kong. This is so that information is automatically
colleagues and sharing documents through online communication
imported into the system, reducing time spent on data entry and human
platforms. Moreover, their duties are prioritized by the management team
error while optimizing operations. As an example, Xero provides access to
through online project planning, and can expedite the issuance and delivery
financial information for both companies and advisors.
of invoices with the automated features of accounting software. Clients of the company receive invoices directly to their mailbox and can pay by credit card, dramatically reducing the time spent on payment settlement.
Founded in 1960 in Lugano (Switzerland), Fidinam is a privately owned Group providing a wide range of solutions for companies and individuals. Our services include tax and wealth planning, trust and corporate services, business consulting and real estate consulting. fidinamgw.com
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ART, CULT U R E A N D M OR E
Do you like music, art, theatre? Do you like music, art, theatre? Are you interested in conferences, talks and seminars about design, art and culture? Then don’t miss the opportunity to attend our events. We are government body, part of the Italian Ministry of Foreigner Affairs and we aim to bring to Hong Kong a great selection of events throughout the year.
By The Italian Cultural Institute
2020 is a year that commemorates 3 big names of Italian culture. It is 500 years since the death of renowned painter Raffaello, whilst the writer Gianni Rodari and his wonderful children stories and the great film director Federico Fellini would both be celebrating their 100th birthday this year.
The Italian Cultural Institute planned a number of exciting events to celebrate the lives of these artists, but due to the current situation we had to reschedule them. Follow our Facebook and Instagram pages or check our website to keep up-to-date with all our events.
Follow us on your favourite social media platforms – Facebook, Instagram or Twitter – or subscribe to our YouTube channel to see some of our live events that you might have missed. Facebook: istituto.dicultura | Instagram: italianculturalinsitute.hk | Twitter: @IICHongKong
To learn more about upcoming Italian events you may contact: Italian Cultural Institute, c/o Consulate General of Italy Hong Kong Suite 3201, 32/F Central Plaza 18, Harbour Road, Wanchai - Hong Kong www.iichongkong.esteri.it | iichongkong@esteri.it
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ART, C ULTUR E AN D MORE
Upcoming Events LIVE EVENTS
Hong Kong and Milan. She has a degree in International Law and a master degree in Social Communications, majoring in Journalism. She has been a professional journalist since 1991, working as a correspondent
Chatting in Italian at The Italian Club, Central
for a number of beauty, fashion, food and lifestyle magazines. A bi-monthly appointment to give the opportunity to people who study Italian to practice in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. An experienced
FREE webinar to learn Italian with Italian polyglot Elisa Polese
Italian teacher will guide you while you are practising to help you improving your vocabulary.
Make the most of your free time by learning or improving your Italian When: July 7th, July 21st, August 4th
in a fun and efficient way.
Where: The Italian Club, 32 Elgin St, Central
Participate in a FREE webinar with polyglot Elisa Polese.
Time: 5.30 pm - 7.30 pm
She will guide you and explain how to learn Italian in a fast and efficient way. Level: from basic level to A2
Book presentation: Painter and Patron: Illustrations of the Maritime Silk Road in 16th century Códice Casanatense by Peter Gordon & Juan José Morales
When: July 17th, August 21st Where: Zoom- Online platform (you will receive a link to participate to the meeting). Please note that the registration ends 12 hours before the
Peter Gordon & Juan José Morales will present their new book: Painter
start of the event
and Patron in the Maritime Silk Road in the Códice Casanatense.
Time: 7:00 pm
The Códice Casanatense is an Indo-Portuguese collection of some 76 captioned watercolours now held in the Biblioteca Casanatense in Rome.
About the teacher: Elisa Polese is a professional language teacher,
Deposited there at the beginning of the 18th century, it resided in almost
language coach, and author. She has studied more than 25 languages and
complete obscurity for two and a half centuries and was not brought to
teaches 13 of them. She holds an MA in International Communication
scholarly attention until the 1950s. It has never been discussed in detail
from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy), an MA in
for the general reader.
Didactic from the University of Siena and Perugia (Italy), and she is the author of a number of languages courses and the book: Multilingual learning: become fluent in multiple languages.
When: Friday, July 17th Where: Hong Kong Bookfair, Room S222-223, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Fare Cinema 2020 - the Italian film festival for the promotion of the Italian cinema and film industry
ONLINE FREE EVENTS
For a week, a series of content dedicated to the Italian cinema and film industry will be available on the RaiPlay platform, which will be available worldwide without geographical limitations and will have
Press Room - Italian articles made easy - FREE webinar by Italian Journalist Stefania Lupi
English subtitles. Among the available contents we point out: • a masterclass by the screenwriter, director and journalist Gianfranco
You have learned Italian and now you are looking for a step forwards.
Angelucci dedicated to Federico Fellini’s cinema;
Would you like to start reading Italian newspapers and magazines but
• two master classes by journalist and film critic Gianni Canova dedicated
you find it difficult to understand them? Italian journalist Stefania
respectively to Alberto Sordi and contemporary Italian cinema;
Lupi will hold a series of FREE webinars in which she will explain and
• fourteen video lessons on the “professions of cinema” made in
comment on newspaper articles about various current topics.
collaboration with the main trade associations; • two short films made by foreign filmmakers and dedicated to the figure
When: July 15th (topic: fashion), July 30th (topic: beauty),
of Federico Fellini, produced in collaboration with the Italian Embassy
August 30th (topic: food)
in Santiago de Chile and the Italian Cultural Institute of Toronto;
Where: Zoom - Online platform (you will receive a link to participate to
• the virtual visit of the exhibition “Il Centenario. Fellini in the world”
the meeting). Please note that the registration ends 12 hours before the
promoted by the DGSP and set up at the moment in San Paolo.
start of the event. When: June 15th - June 21st
Time: 8:00 pm
Where: www.raiplay.it About Stefania Lupi is an Italian journalist who divides her time between 15
Re-create & Re-stART
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“
“In these unstable and uncertain times, we need to look to the things that unite us – the things that show us the world in all of its variations – and for that, we need artists.” - Audrey Azouley
After months of battling the COVID-19 pandemic since the discovery of the virus in December 2019, it appears the world is finally beginning to embark on the road to recovery. During this period of recuperation, we now more than ever need something to ignite within us a sense of solidarity – and perhaps the answer lies in the arts. Since January, several live performances and shows in Hong Kong have been cancelled in accordance with social distancing measures. However, this has not stopped local performance art companies from showcasing their craft. For instance, City Contemporary Dance Company (CDCC) has pursued a number of innovations that take advantage of online tools. The group has uploaded footage of past performances and workshops onto social media, livestreaming behind-the-scenes talks and dance classes, as well as broadcasting rehearsals online. As explained by Raymond Wong, managing director of CCDC, these online performances are intended to provide comfort and connection to those stuck in quarantine. That being said, the transition to online performances comes with a number of challenges, including the need to rethink stage theory and adapting to performing for cameras instead of a live audience. Yet performance companies have much to gain in exchange – the elimination of physical limitations such as geography and seating capacity creates the potential for a vastly expanded, global viewership. Beyond Hong Kong, the pandemic has also highlighted the importance of art as an international symbol of hope and unity. Artists and musicians the world over have shifted their focus towards how best to aid in combatting COVID-19, utilizing their talents to circulate health guidelines, spread optimism and prevent misinformation. This is perhaps best exemplified by 2020’s World Art Day, which featured such humorous and topical works as the Mona Lisa wearing a surgical mask or self-isolating in the Louvre. Besides, the pandemic has also sparked debate on the future of art – while artists have moved online in response to the closure of venues and cancellation of events, doing so has shed light on a growing digital divide among vulnerable groups. This has prompted UNESCO to launch the “ResiliArt” movement, which aims to affirm the resilience of art, shed light on the effects of COVID-19 on creative industries and prepare for the future through debates, sharing and advocacy efforts among artists across the globe It speaks volumes that the epidemic has failed to stifle the creative spirit, and in fact has served as a vehicle of innovation and community support. This resilience should serve as an inspiration to individuals and organizations from all facets of society.
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M ASS I M O D E C A R L O
How the art world replies to the pandemic
O
n February 7th, 2020, Art Basel Hong Kong announced the cancellation of its forthcoming edition, which was scheduled to open to the public on March 19th at the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre.
Amid the social unrest and the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the art fair cancellation wasn’t totally unexpected. And since then, like a series of dominoes, most arts events, exhibitions, fairs, and biennales have been postponed or cancelled one after another. However, the art world never stops. It is indeed true that creativity thrives when faced with a crisis. Artists are catalyzers – they are those that filter situations, including negative ones, through their own experiences and sensibilities, returning them to us in the form of artworks.
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co v er story
“However, the art world never stops. It is indeed true that creativity thrives when faced with a crisis.” By Claudia Albertini Director at Massimo De Carlo, Hong Kong
It is undeniable that since the outbreak of the pandemic, the art business
The crisis we are now facing is something that we have never experienced
has been deeply affected, and the dynamics between demands and offers
before, given that it is not political or financial in nature. However, it is a
have shifted. In this new and unstable environment, our gallery’s priorities
crisis of consumption, and the art world serves a very sophisticated niche
have been to guarantee the positions of our team across all four locations,
of customers. It is reasonable to assume that it will be a while before the
protect our artists by securing income and therefore work out alternative
art market recovers.
strategies to continue selling their artworks.
In the past five years or so, we have experienced art as “events”. The
At the same time, we have had to make adaptations to the working
current impossibility of gathering at the same time and place will affect
arrangements of our four locations. During the lockdown, smart working
the future of the art system, which is cosmopolitan and global by nature.
has become essential, and thus we have implemented our systems to be
The consequent limitations on “movement” and “interaction” have higher
able to work from home.
implications because “art needs to be seen up close”.
Overall, the main challenge has been to present artworks without being
The secret perhaps lies in understanding the changes and adapting to
able to open exhibitions to the public. To achieve this, we have chosen to
them. It is indeed a great opportunity for those with vision and focus to
take advantage of the digital and virtual sphere.
keep moving forward.
Hence, on April 14th, Massimo De Carlo has launched its fifth gallery, VSpace: the first virtual art gallery. The project to create a virtual space had been in the pipeline since last September – in a sense, COVID-19 gave us the chance to put the idea into practice and it proved very successful. Setting up a show within a virtual space is nowhere similar to organizing a show in a physical space. The process and order in which elements are added and taken into consideration is very different, which proves that new perspectives are essential in order to reach the same result. Henceforth, this poses a new challenge for ourselves and our artists. It is important to envision that while the virtual will not replace the physical – yet – it has become a part of our lives and can facilitate communication, especially in our field and under current circumstances.
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M useum A d a p tat i on s
The future of culture, from analog to digital
A
s several aspects of everyday life have seemingly come to a standstill in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, it seems natural to assume that leisure and recreation as we know them have become impossibilities. The appreciation of art and culture comes to mind – having heard of repeated cancellations of events and closure of institutions, the future of creativity might appear bleak. Not so! As the great Leonardo da Vinci
once said, “Art lives from constraints and dies from freedom.� Perhaps in a stroke of irony, the distance forced upon us by the epidemic has fostered a newfound openness to others and to culture, strengthening the links between artistic creation and society. It goes without saying that artists stand at the forefront of this mindset, but venues are just as important. Across the world, we are observing a rapid paradigm shift that is turning a bid for survival into a chance at innovation.
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co v er story
“Of course, a movement towards online content need not require sacrifices in interactivity or educational value.”
By Rajib Hussain
Digital Initiatives
While challenging, doing so comes with a number of advantages, namely
In keeping with the spirit of art, museums have leveraged technology
the creation of new jobs within the sector.
to pursue creative solutions to diminished visitor numbers and closures as a result of social distancing. For instance, many museums have taken
According to Wang Chunfa, director of the National Museum of China,
to launching online exhibitions on a range of topics – Beijing’s Palace
there is a rising demand for a new kind of talent that understands both
Museum in particular has taken the opportunity to revisit some of its most
museum operations and information technology, in order to support
popular exhibits with a digital touch, such as “Embracing the Orient and
the shift towards customized, multimodal cultural experiences. In other
the Occident: When the Silk Road Meets the Renaissance”. The Palace
words, creatives such as photographers, software engineers and even
Museum has also upgraded its digital cultural relic storage, showcasing
online engineers might find themselves crucial to the digital transition of
high-definition images and 3D panoramas of over 52 thousand of its
museums, as well as the reimagining of how culture is delivered beyond
antiques.
physical locations. Encouraging Future Collaboration In recent months, museums have begun moving towards museums and institutions working together to weather the financial effects of the pandemic. Sydney Hawkins, director of the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA), explained that UMMA has been in regular meetings with fellow museums across the United States. On the table are mutual marketing strategies, collective exhibitions and sharing of collections to minimize costs. This comes as an efficient and effective response to the potential aftermath of COVID-19, which threatens to render museums unable to sustain themselves due to a lack of opportunity to plan events within their spaces following closures during the pandemic.
Of course, a movement towards online content need not require sacrifices in interactivity or educational value. Other initiatives that the Palace Museum has spearheaded include “Panoramic Palace Museum”, a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to explore the former royal residence that comprises the museum in immersive detail. It also celebrated the 600th anniversary of the Forbidden City, where the museum is housed, by holding its first-ever online guided tours to an audience of over 10 million people.
Trend Towards Digital Transitioning One way or another, COVID-19 has emphasized the growing need for museums and other cultural institutions to adapt to an increasingly internet-dependent world, irrespective of the extent to which they have previously utilized technology in their operations. For some, this has meant a rapid rethinking of future plans in order to survive the pandemic.
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INT EGR A F R A G R A N C E S
Enhancing the power and accessibility of art How? Through the sense of smell
I
t goes without saying that society has been put under a great deal of stress in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic – and it follows that people will seek out sources of comfort and relief. One possible method of soothing pressures during this difficult period is fragrances, which can trigger powerful emotions and memories through one’s sense of smell. According to Jason Lee, founder of fragrance label SIX, “COVID-19 has forced us to focus on
the emotional and psychological, and people now realize fragrance plays an important role in our well-being.” As social distancing and smart working are elevated to the new norm, functional fragrances such as scented sanitizers, candles and diffusers have risen to prominence for their olfactory benefits in relaxation, concentration or even sleep. Integra Fragrances brings these merits to the commercial sphere, developing scents that embody its client brands and forge lasting experiences for their customers. Emotional branding is the new concept applied to retail and beyond. Whether it’s fashion, luxury, banking or anything else, multisensory is the key word: involving all the senses to make the customer or guest live complete and unforgettable experiences. Of all, the sense of smell is the sense that most triggers emotions and leaves a strong, long-lasting imprinting in memory. Perfume evokes, seduces, involves. And here is where art pops in. 22
“Just like art, design sees perfume as a means to involve, excite and amaze.”
co v er story
By Francesca Piana Marketing & Communication of Inegra Fragrances
Since the launch of the heritage exhibition Serpentiform, Bulgari decided
2016, Gallerie d’Italia have introduced scent into their artistic programs
that scent had to play an important role. Perfume was essential to make
as a way to discover art through the five senses rather than just sight.
the art experience more emotional, memorable and unique by giving an
In collaboration with Integra Fragrances, customised fragrances are
iconic branded touch to the venue. Bulgari’s Eau Parfumée au Thé Vert,
specially created to scent dozens of rooms and exhibitions, dedicated to
the brand’s universal signature scent, was diffused thanks to an advanced
both temporary and permanent collections. A new engaging format to
remotely-controlled fragrance diffusion technology owned by Integra
experience art has been launched, called the Olfactory walks: guided tours
Fragrances, an Italian firm specialized in signature scents and fragrance
combining the artistical and historal description of an artwork with the
diffusion technologies. Inaugurated in 2016 at Palazzo Braschi, in Rome,
experience of a tailor-made fragrance that brings the masterpiece to a
the Serpentiform scented format moved to the Artscience Museum in
scented emotional dimension.
Singapore, to Tokyo City View Roppongi Hills Mori Tower in November 2017, and finally to Chengdu Museum in 2019. Just like art, design sees perfume as a means to involve, excite and amaze. The Bulgari Milan Design Week 2018 installation, an himn to modern art and avant-garde design by the 3 icons MVRDV, Storace Associati Milano and Ivan Navarro, was scented. And again last year, the Bulgari sixmonths-long majestic exhibition The Story, The Dream, could not take place in Rome without its iconic perfume. For the occasion, more than 170 jewels and dresses taken from the historical archive of the Maison, many of which worn in movies by the most famous women in the world, were exhibited in Castel Sant’Angelo and Palazzo Venezia, enhanced by the scented notes that distinguish the Bulgari Hotels in the world. From Italy to London, after many photography exhibitions were made
On top of that, at Gallerie d’Italia perfume is the protagonist of many
more attractive thanks to perfume, the world-famous architect Renzo
educational programs dedicated to all ages. The museums offer an
Piano chose a fragrance to represent his great retrospective “Renzo Piano:
experiential program for schools and a busy calendar of activities for
The Art of Making Buildings” at the Royal Academy of Arts.
groups with disabilities. Imagine a blind man unable to enjoy the beauty of a statue, who can finally do it thanks to touch and smell. Think of a
However, Gallerie d’Italia in Italy are the place in which art and perfume
child with autism problems experiencing art with a sense that is more
have been combined with the most honorable goals, including that of
close to him as more linked to the subconscious. Imagine if he could
doing good. Gallerie d’Italia are the arts museums of the Intesa Sanpaolo
finally communicate with his schoolmates thanks to a shared immersive
banking group, the largest bank in Italy. Historical buildings in the heart
experience. Customized fragrances are each time created to reproduce
of Milan, Naples and Vicenza host one of the largest collections of painting
an historical era, an artistic current or movement, an atmosphere or a
and sculpture of the Italian peninsula. From Caravaggio to Tiepolo, from
single work of art. The power and beauty of scent accompanies children,
Canaletto to Boccioni, passing through Mirò, Picasso, Kandinsky, Warhol
disabled people and the elderly in the use of art, sometimes made possible
and Fontana, in 2019 half a million visitors experienced the over 30,000
only thanks to the sense of smell.
works dated between the fifth and twentieth centuries. When it comes to designing an art journey that is immersive, exciting and memorable, perfume comes first. Did you know that, after six months, our brain remembers an aroma much more easily than an image, and our mood improves by 40% in the presence of a pleasant fragrance? Since 23
RAJI B HUSS A I N
COVID-19 adaptations in the fashion industry
A
s with several other industries involved in the arts, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the global fashion industry in a number of ways. In order to safeguard public health, governments have closed down manufacturing plants and cancelled events en masse. This standstill has also led to the widespread closure of retailers. Faced with these unfavourable circumstances, the industry as a whole has been prompted to rethink its
existing practices, adopting digital solutions and novel thinking to create new opportunities to present collections and maintain visibility.
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co v er story
“Perhaps the most evident change to the fashion industry’s supply chain is the rapid shift towards e-commerce.” By Rajib Hussain
Design and Manufacturing
Supply Chain
Across the world, lockdown and quarantine measures have placed great
Perhaps the most evidence change to the fashion industry’s supply chain
pressure on the fashion design and manufacturing process, both for major
is the rapid shift towards e-commerce, as a response to social distancing
labels and individual designers. For instance, London-based fashion
practices and the closure of physical retailers. Industry analyses carried
designer Steven Tai faced heavy setbacks at his factory in Macau, due to
out in the United States reported a 45 percent increase in online sales by
several of his workers and seamstresses finding themselves stranded in
the end of April. Even as lockdown measures begin to loosen around the
Wuhan following Chinese New Year. Despite operating with less than
world, retailers have focused on developing their e-commerce channels
20 percent of his team onsite, Tai was able to produce a collection of
under the assumption that current consumer behaviours will persist past
showroom samples for Paris Fashion Week – albeit it was presented to just
the pandemic.
half the number of usual buyers. To this end, certain apparel businesses have opted to build their reach Determined to retain visibility, Tai turned to digital solutions in order to
through community-building experiences. For instance, Nike in China
reach the remaining buyers, who were placed under lockdown. Equipped
released a series of “workout-from-home” content on its fitness app,
with just a camera and lazy Susan turntable, he managed to create a virtual
which generated an 80 percent growth in users during Q1 2020. This
lookbook containing 360-degree gifs of each outfit in the collection. This
expanded userbase led to a 30 percent increase in online sales.
allowed clients to get a proper look at the collection, regardless of physical restrictions. Tai’s concept proved highly effective, seeing as half the orders
Marketing
were placed through the virtual lookbook. As the pandemic continues to diminish potential profits, members of the In terms of manufacturing, the situation has seen gradual improvements
fashion industry are forced to reconsider the amount of funding allocated
in China. According to Steven Tai, fabric suppliers in China have
to marketing budgets and campaigns. In light of this, social media
recuperated since the initial lockdown in January. His factory has also
influencers are becoming an increasingly prominent form of marketing,
offset losses from mass order cancellations by manufacturing for third
due to their cost efficiency and level of reach. One of the reasons for
party brands. However, the same cannot be said elsewhere – textile
this is social distancing practices – with most of the world engaged in
suppliers and garment manufacturers have been hamstringed across
self-quarantine and smart working, engagement with online sponsored
Europe due to travel restrictions and industrial lockdowns. Among the
content is on the rise. Particularly noteworthy is Instagram, which has
affected is Spain-based designer, Sonia Carrasco, whose sales in Japan,
seen its usage increase by up to 40 percent.
Vietnam and Thailand have been hit hard because of restrictions on business hours for physical retailers. In other words, COVID-19 has had
This adaptation comes as a two-way street – influencers themselves have
a negative impact on both the supply and demand of fashion items.
had to approach their content creation based on the new needs and
Carrasco has chosen to deal with these complications by rethinking her
contexts of their audiences. As an example, influencers have reported a
approach to manufacturing. She aims to streamline her next collection
move towards light-hearted, uplifting stories as a means for audiences
with fewer designs that are “more creative and detail-focused”. Besides,
to escape from the saturation of news related to COVID-19. Sponsored
she plans to leverage the superior reach of the internet by creating digital
content is also being framed from a “working from home” angle, including
samples, rather than displaying them in-house.
home outfit ideas, beauty and wellness tutorials and even makeup tutorials for Zoom calls.
25
IL LY
Illycaffe’s culture of beauty
I
n recent months, restaurants and other members of the food and beverage industry have had to get creative to adapt to the effects of COVID-19. Across the world, these solutions have manifested in different ways, in response to a range of issues such as falling customer numbers and the diminishing availability of suppliers. These vary between leveraging the analog and the digital – from setting up makeshift farmer’s markets on SME
storefronts, shifting to takeaway and delivery models, and online crowdfunding initiatives to cover wages for furloughed employees. On the other side of the spectrum, customers moored at home have also had the opportunity to flex their creative muscles. With the advent of home cooking comes a great many chances – a chance to improve one’s culinary skills. A chance to reflect on where ingredients come from and build a greater appreciation for what sustains us. And above all, a chance to acquire a deeper understanding of the aesthetic principles behind the creation of food, transcending the process of eating from the biological to the artistic. A movement that certainly embodies the core of illycaffè.
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co v er story
“For a company that pursues excellence, seeking beauty is not some secondary add-on but on the contrary a key component of its corporate culture and ethics.”
By Christine Pascolo, Direzione Corporate illycaffè
Coffee: The Good and the Beautiful
The illy Art Collection
The philosophy that prompted the company to open a fast-track chan-
More than twenty years ago, Francesco Illy had the brainwave of inviting a
nel of communication with the contemporary art world grew out of an
group of artists to express their creativity on the outside of an espresso cup
extended interpretation of the concept of “coffee culture”. The beverage
that Matteo Thun had designed for illy. The resulting illy Art Collection
that wakes us up each morning, thanks to the stimulus of caffeine, is a
transformed an everyday object into a blank canvas. Over the years, more
beverage that during the day takes on another meaning, through the pure
than eighty internationally renowned artists have worked on this canvas,
pleasure of ritual. The very same coffee that physiologically reawakens
from Michelangelo Pistoletto to Marina Abramovic, Anish Kapoor, James
our senses has become an opportunity to meet, chat and stimulate our
Rosenquist, William Kentridge, Yoko Ono, and Gillo Dorfles.
intellects. The value of coffee is therefore as physiological as it is aesthetic, social, and intellectual.
illy Art Collection cups are a tangible expression of illy’s concept of the culture of beauty. Coffee-lovers who sip an illy espresso from an artist-de-
illy coffee strives for beauty because it has been optimally orchestrated
signed coffee cup actively combine the aroma and taste of the company’s
in its blend and in the balance of its aromas and flavors; because all its
blend with a complete aesthetic, visual and tactile experience; they estab-
ingredients have been chosen and blended to achieve harmonious results.
lish a relationship with contemporary art. Graphically and conceptually,
Coffee has its visual component too: a state-of-the-art espresso has an
these artist-designed cups are the nexus where the different languages of
intense hazelnut color and a “tiger stripe” crema, reminding us of the
the illy universe meet and interpenetrate, creating the “art and science of
coffee’s exotic provenance.
the espresso”.
But that’s not the whole story. The beauty for which illycaffè strives is associated with the Ancient Greek term kalokagathìa, coined by combining kalòs (beautiful) and agathòs (good) to create a new meaning in which goodness and beauty become indivisible, one dependent upon the other. This is a veritable ideal that we pursue: the union of the beautiful and the good that defines the heights of human perfection, integrating aesthetics with an ethical dimension. For a company that pursues excellence, seeking beauty is not some secondary add-on but on the contrary a key component of its corporate culture and ethics. Offering the finest coffee that nature can provide is an idea that comprises a plethora of other ideas. It is an overarching conception of the world that embraces the marvelous places where coffee plants grow and where the beans are harvested. The elegant bars and refined conversations among intellectuals; and art, design, and artist-designed cups.
27
imp erfect c u i s i n e
By Accademia Italiana della Cucina
“Il cibo è l’unico atto creativo che introduciamo nei nostri corpi” [Food is the only creative act that we introduce in our bodies] - Ferran Adrià
I
f The Art of Loving exists as such and its understanding has been a milestone of XX century psychology, sociology and philosophy, we wonder
whether speaking of The Art of Eating could bring similarly profound reflections in our fast changing – nowadays dramatically changing – society. It is not by chance that the XXI century has welcomed the meeting of food with one of the newest forms of art, which came to birth in the very late XIX century: design.
What is Food Design? Food Design is a discipline that encompasses planning (Italians would say “progettazione” or “progettualità”), art, biology, anthropology, sociology, nutrition, history of culinary systems and forms of conviviality – all merging to generate products related to food. It is not a single-track approach as it can shape life experiences and emotions through a variety of creations. This relatively new discipline has multiple facets, all worth knowing.
28
imper f ec t c uisine Design with Food deals with food as if it were an object, focusing
thought-provoking values. In other words, design pulls conversations
on its usability, ergonomics, production, shape, materials, packaging
and experiences that enrich being together around a table, deepening
and rituals of use. This process aims to create new objects in terms of
sensorial perceptions and the fun of critical thinking – both of which are
taste, texture, temperature, color and texture. It can go from laser cut
crucial elements of being human.
nori wrappings evoking naturalistic patterns, a project commissioned
One last declaration of Food Design is the creation of spaces and
at a time when seaweed consumption fell following the 2011 tsunami
interiors. From contexts ranging from restaurants and home kitchens
(agency I&S BBDO); to the Cookie Cup by Sardi Strategic Design.
to event design, the way we come together around food has been looked upon with fresh eyes and forward-looking intentions. The question is
Eating Design is the design of any eating situation where people interact
what social food gatherings will look like today and in the future. The
with food. This is not new news in the art of eating. Banquets in the
trends observed in the last few months clearly speak of a significant
Roman Empire were events where layout, choreography, music and food
increase in grocery shopping and home cooking versus a drastic decline
presentations were as important as the guests. Renaissance feasts were
in dining out. Interest in organic and non-animal foods have grown
also performing art events. In 1933, Italian Futurists invented a Plastica
more than ever before, owing to chefs’ broadcasts on YouTube and other
Mangiabile (Edible Plastic) dinner, the apex of their idea of Cuisine as
platforms. Kitchens are newly becoming the centre of the house, designed
a workshop merging Art and Life, as if their utopian universe could
anew to reflect their importance in a home-centric, virtually connecting
be modeled from the basic need of feeding ourselves. More recently
type of aggregation; where kids will be studying, while friends and family
Culinary Theater, performances in which the public is invited to eat, has
will Zoom or video call in.
taken over some theatrical seasons worldwide. Will design stick to proven answers to this new demand in the domestic landscape, or will the power of ideas and creativity – in a word, art – inspire workable solutions? Although restaurants are coping with the certain drop of visitors while developing their take out or delivery offerings, they are also becoming aware of the unique, incorporeal values their physical space embodies. Whether it is a historic tradition or an escapist’s ambition, restaurants can still express their identity and be the magnificent place of aggregation that they have been for thousands of years.
Food Product points at the design of food to be mass produced. A couple of examples include Marille, a pasta in a helicoid shape, smooth on the exterior and internally corrugated to maximize sauce retention. Marille was created for Voiello in 1983 by Italdesign, a consultancy headed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. More recently, chocolate manufacturer Barry Callebaut has set up a dedicated 3D printing studio for desserts, providing chefs with an opportunity to create bespoke designs that can be reproduced at scale. Design for Food is the design of all the products useful to cut, chop, mix, contain, preserve, store, cook and present food, while Design About Food concerns the design of objects inspired by food. Do all these aspects of Food Design impact the way we come together around food? While we can argue on the topic, we may all agree that through the lens of design, food acquires unprecedented aesthetic and
The Accademia Italiana della Cucina has been present in Hong Kong since 2012. The Delegation is headed by Mr Savio Pesavento and welcomes new members, individuals who are passionate about food and knowledgeable about Italian cuisine www.facebook.com/accademiaitalianadellacucinahongkong
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ita li a n ch at s
Contemporary Art Italian Survival Kit By Dante Alighieri Society
A
Il mio falegname con 30mila lire la fa meglio…
fter waiting for ages to enjoy this moment, you are now standing right in front of that piece of modern art you always wanted to see with your own eyes. Your heart is pumping, your hands
are shaking and you feel just like a child waiting to open his Christmas
My carpenter would have done it better with only
present. Then… “Oh my, what in the world is this? Are people actually
30 thousand lire…
paying to see this nonsense? I want my money back!” Breathe in. Breathe out. We know that you would really like to “paint that guy on the wall” (like we would say in Italian), but it is not worth it.
While this phrase is almost the same as the previous one on our list, we
Instead, what you could do is pick up this issue of Italiancham Magazine
wanted to add this one as well due to its status as one of the most famous
and you will do good not only for the artist, but also for yourself and
Italian movie quotes (and also because it relates precisely to our topic!).
countless other art enthusiasts across Italy!
Let us explain: the protagonists of this movie have to carry an extremely expensive sculpture back to their father-in-law in Puglia, located in the southern peninsula of Italy. When they finally open the box that contains
So, here is our list of top 5 things NOT to say in a museum!
the leg sculpture, one of them cries out this famous line – once again invoking the disillusionment towards modern art pieces. Then comes the final blow: “non ha nemmeno le unghie” (it even has no nails). So, using this line in a museum will definitely not help you out with art enthusiasts, but fans of Tre uomini e una gamba (Three Men and a Leg) will at least hug you!
Questo lo sapevo fare anche io! I could have done that as well!
C’mon, we are 100 percent sure that you thought something like this at least once in your life; do not lie to us! And you should be very ashamed of yourself – number one is definitely the most irritating phrase on our list! With these six words, you are reducing the artistic creative process to simply the last part: making things happen (and even that part is not easy at all…). We know you could do exactly the same. So why did you not do it, then? Lack of time? Lack of resources? Or maybe it is simply because “those who can, do; those who cannot, teach”. 30
ITALIAN CHATS
Ma c’è gente che paga per vedere/comprare ‘sta roba?!? Are there really people paying to see/buy this stuff?!?
We are just at number three on our list, but we guess you can already grasp the leitmotiv that connects most of our entries: the dismissive approach mainly towards what is considered to be modern or contemporary art. Most of the time, people see art pieces like the “Comedian” (the famous
Sì beh, ma l’arte rinascimentale è tutta un’altra cosa…
banana taped to the wall by Maurizio Cattelan) as nothing more than pieces of junk with absolutely no value. And, as you can see, it all goes back to the mindset from the first phrase on our list – this thing has no value. I could have made it myself. Modern art is nonsense.
Renaissance art? There is no comparison with that…
If number four was the perfect lead into any of the phrases that we have included on our list, this one is the perfect closer! Suppose that you are having a picnic, and then someone takes out oranges for everyone. Oranges are nice, very nice, but then one of your friends says, “Yeah, you’re right, oranges are nice. But sushi is way better…” You would probably respond, “Wait… what?!” Well, that is the same feeling that modern art enthusiasts have to deal with when someone says something like our number five. Comparing modern art and Renaissance art makes absolutely no sense! They can be beautiful in their own ways, yes, but why compare them? Take a look at “Venere” by Botticelli and “Autumn Rhythm” by Pollock, for instance. Both of these pieces evoke completely opposite feelings. Maybe
Niente, io l’arte moderna non la capisco proprio…
it is because they ARE quite different? Perhaps Renaissance art is, in some ways, more “immediate” than modern art – but does that make it “better”? Well, we are not sure about that. Now, you can go have your sushi, but do not complain if someone compares it with tiramisù (which
There’s nothing I can do about it. Modern art is not
is obviously much better…).
my cup of tea…
This one is the master of all excuses when it comes to commenting on art. It is usually used before any of our previous entries, just as an opening – by saying this, you are basically allowing yourself to express any negative comments you might have about the piece you are looking at (and when we say “any”, we really mean it)! Even if you ought to be doing the opposite, right? I do not know, I do not judge… well, it is not that easy, apparently! So, instead of just stepping back and criticizing, why not try to get closer and THEN criticize? Sounds like a good idea, no?
For info on how to improve your Italian or learn it from scratch, you may contact: DANTE ALIGHIERI SOCIETY 1/F Honest Building, 9-11 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong ladante.cc | dantealighieri@ladante.cc
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M EM B ER S S P OT L I G H T
“For more than sixty years we have been clothing technology in elegant robes with a strong identity, improving efficiency every day by constantly investing in production processes.”
N
obili spa Rubinetterie
production processes. We do not only deal with producing taps, but we also develop systems that save a precious and lacking treasure : water.
How would you describe your company in 3 words and why? Since 1954 CARLO NOBILI SPA RUBINETTERIE has been an international benchmark in manufacturing faucets for bathroom and kitchen, thanks to the quality and the design of its products and the technological efficiency of its made in Italy production. We are a reference point in this field thanks to an innovative and modernly equipped plant using technological efficiency, high level of automation and eco-sustainable production. We have been designing the best possible technology for water for more than 60 years, ever convinced that the technologically advanced nature of our production plants must develop hand-in-hand with the technological advances in our products.
What is the special relationship between CARLO NOBILI SPA RUBINETTERIE and Hong Kong? The story of NOBILI in Hong Kong began many years ago, we are talking about over 25 years, and it has always grown and strengthened. Our presence started with the retail and was consolidated in the projects business. The success has been achieved thanks to our superior and reliable quality and the Italian design, that distinguishes us and is always increasingly appreciated.
Tell us about a successful project that CARLO NOBILI SPA RUBINETTERIE runs. Imagining the future is a fascinating challenge. For more than sixty years we have been clothing technology in elegant robes with a strong identity, improving efficiency every day by constantly investing in
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MEMB ER S SPOTL IGHT
“Whether it’s fashion, luxury, banking or anything else, multisensory is the key word: involving all the senses to make the customer live complete and unforgettable experiences.”
I
ntegra Fragrances
one device could remotely control a second tank, besides the perfume tank. By filling the second tank with a highly efficient non-toxic and worldwide regulated active principle, we became able to offer a double service. We perfume the environments during the day and sanitize them at night, bringing the air, surfaces and air conditioning systems to the lowest microbial contamination level and the best air quality class.
How would you describe your company in 3 words and why? Perfume is: emotion, charm, well-being. Perfume being an integral part of Integra Fragrances, and the absolute protagonist in our company’s everyday life, its distinctive features suit Integra Fragrances as well. We design customized signature scents for brands who want to translate their DNA into something more powerful to bring their branding communication to the next level. Emotional branding is the new concept applied to retail and beyond. Whether it’s fashion, luxury, banking or anything else, multisensory is the key word: involving all the senses to make the customer live complete and unforgettable experiences. Of all, the sense of smell is the sense that most triggers emotions and leaves a strong, long-lasting imprinting in memory.
What is the special relationship between INTEGRA FRAGRANCES and Hong Kong? Hong Kong is the city where we decided to base our Asian office. From Hong Kong we manage new projects, surveys, installations and maintenance of all our scented (and sanitized) locations in APAC.
Perfume evokes, seduces, involves. This is how perfuming an environment ends to be highly positioning, makes those who experience it feel good, enjoy it more and stay longer. It binds the customer to your brand in a subtle, emotional yet very strong way.
In Hong Kong we are present with both a local technical office and a commercial office, while the rest of the functions (including scent design, research and development, customer service) is managed by our headquarters in Reggio Emilia, Italy.
Tell us about a successful project that INTEGRA FRAGRANCES runs. As Integra Fragrances we develop customized scent identities for the most charming international brands and diffuse them in 48 countries thanks to an advanced remotely controlled technology. Bulgari, Fendi, Salvatore Ferragamo, MaxMara, Emirates, H&M, Acqua di Parma are just some of the prestigious customers that make us proud everyday. In February-March 2020, as the pandemic approached Europe, we asked to ourselves what we could do to keep bringing value to our customers worldwide in the post Covid-19 era. A few months before we had started some laboratory tests in order to assess the 100% natural antiviral and antibacterial activity of some particular essential oils. We were on the right way, but we needed to go faster. We realized we had more than 3,500 scenting devices installed worldwide and connected to our customers’s HVAC systems. We adapted our technology so that
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HIG HLI G HTS
Italian National Day 2020
I
n celebration of the Italian National Day 2020, the Italian Chamber of
to all the victims of COVID-19 in Italy and ensure the continued safety
Commerce in Hong Kong & Macao is proud to share My Dear Italia:
of our members and the community in compliance with social distancing
a homage to Italy’s vibrant culture that promotes Italian flair, lifestyle
measures.
and “made-in-Italy” in Hong Kong. The remembrance of the Italian Republic’s founding comes as a much-needed respite from the hardships of
That being said, difficult situations demand creative solutions. Leveraging
the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had far-reaching effects in both Italy
the power of social media and online communication tools – Facebook,
and Hong Kong. Despite the gradually improving situation – Italy lifted
Instagram and Zoom – the Chamber successfully held two thrilling events
domestic travel restrictions on June 3rd, whereas Hong Kong has approved
as part of the celebration: My Dear Italia Social Media Contest and My
the reopening of various entertainment venues – we made the decision not
Dear Italia Quiz Night.
to hold any live events as part of the festivities. This was done to pay tribute
Social Media Contest
Quiz Night
On Monday, June 1st, 2020, the Chamber launched a weeklong campaign
As an alternative to the Chamber’s usual Italian National Day afterparty,
on Facebook and Instagram, in collaboration with the Consulate General
we instead opted for a friendly challenge in the form of a Quiz Night, held
of Italy and Vivere all’Italiana. The contest called upon participants to join
over a conference call on Zoom on Tuesday, June 2nd. Over 30 contenders
us in paying tribute to the beauty of Italy by sharing stories and pictures
took part in this engaging event, which virtually connected the Italian and
of their most unforgettable memories, whether they be past trips, cultural
local communities under the banner of appreciation towards Italy’s culture
exchanges or dining experiences. For our part, we strove to generate interest
and traditions. It presented a prime opportunity to learn more about our
within the local community towards our beloved country through regular
amazing country, exchange knowledge and test the expertise of those
posts showcasing the best in culture, sights and cuisines that various regions
familiar in a friendly, immersive environment. During the quiz, participants
have to offer – paired with promotional posts from our sponsors that
were tasked with answering a series of questions on Italian history, art and
connect them to their origins.
pop culture, but not without the promise of reward, of course. The six participants that emerged from the gauntlet with the highest scores were
Through these joint efforts, we sought not only to provide a regional focus
rewarded with extravagant prizes from our sponsors.
and interesting insights about the many wonders of Italy to local and nonlocal audiences, but also to support the Italian business community in
In appreciation for graciously joining us in a night spent honouring Italian
Hong Kong during this period of recovery. Ten lucky winners were chosen
culture, each participant was also presented with a complimentary bottle
and presented with a hamper filled with HKD 10,000 worth of luxurious
of Prosecco.
Italian goodies; supplied to us by our generous sponsors.
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The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Macao would like to thank the sponsors of the Italian Nationa Day campaign “My dear Italia�
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wh at ’s o n h on g k on g
by
Lia Campiglio
B
orn in a small countryside town of Piemonte (Italy), Lia Campiglio then left home and moved to Venice to study Oriental languages (Mandarin) at Ca' Foscari University. After living and studying abroad in Barcelona
(Spain), Beijing and Nanjing (PRC), in 2012 she decided to leave her Country and work in a competitive market such as Hong Kong. She is currently working at the Italian Cultural Institute of Hong Kong. While organizing cultural events related to Italian culture, arts and lifestyle she enjoys exploring the wonders of South East Asia.
How the Covid-19 is Changing Arts and Entertainment Around the World With the coronavirus outbreak changing the way everyone is
inspired artworks describing reactions and behaviors of people to
working and living, organizations within the arts and culture sector
this pandemic. Banksy made lockdown art by painting his iconic
are learning to adapt to a “new normal” and change their business
stenciled street rats causing mayhem in his bathroom and creating
models as art fairs, exhibitions, concerts, performing arts events,
a monochromatic painting called Game Changer showing a boy
and workshops have been canceled or postponed.
playing with a nurse superhero toy, with figures of Batman and Spider-Man discarded in a bin.
Lovers of the arts need not despair! As countries around the world have imposed mandatory social
As part of efforts to contain logistical challenges, decreased revenues
distancing measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, artists and
and layoffs across the sector, museums and art fairs rapidly updated
cultural organizations have been changing their approach to art
to focus on their digital offerings – virtual resources, e-learning and
and moving their careers online to provide access to their cultural
online collections – and joined forces to launch online platforms to
heritage to the community.
show the resilience of the art scene.
In response to canceled art shows, conferences and coaching
The digital age has made it possible – and easy! – to visit some of
sessions, artists are taking intensive efforts and a positive approach
the world’s most famous museums from the comfort of your own
to overcome the challenges of COVID-19 by providing alternative
home such as the British Museum in London, the J. Paul Getty
or additional services through digital platforms and by focusing on
Museum in Los Angeles, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the
online creativity coaching.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, and many more.
Artists have increasingly learned to depend on online tools to run their businesses and online presence will continue to be important
The Vatican Museums feature an extensive collection of important
after coming out of isolation as well. This allows artists to
art and classical sculptures: the audience can take a virtual tour
communicate with those around the world also sheltered-in-place
of the museum grounds, including Michelangelo’s ceiling in the
and to connect with their audience or other artists. Even if it is a
Sistine Chapel. Visitors can also wander the Uffizi Gallery halls
challenging time, it is no surprise that artists are getting creative
by scrolling through more than 300,000 works from their digital
with new ways to build community and keep creative.
archives.
For example, Hong Kong artist Tommy Fung – better known as Surrealhk on Instagram – has created a series of COVID-19
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In March 2020, Art Basel Hong Kong launched online viewing
Despite this grave situation, the music industry is adapting: many
rooms which allowed gallerists to showcase works intended for the
musicians, singers and songwriters have turned to online teaching
canceled fair. The showrooms began with a preview followed by
in response to a sudden increase in people pursuing music during
several days when the showrooms were open to the public. This
self-quarantine. Individually and collectively, artists have been
initiative attracted over 250,000 digital visitors and was the art
organizing online performances via their social media platforms,
world’s first large-scale effort to remain financially and socially
both planned and impromptu. Current circumstances have had a
active during the pandemic.
positive impact on creativity and mental wellness, as performers have the opportunity to increase productivity and creativity.
In addition to this, arts institutions in Hong Kong – including galleries, museums, auction houses, and media outlets – have
To fight the effects of the pandemic, several remote-participation
teamed up to create a new online platform called ART Power
concerts were organized to raise funds, including The iHeart Living
HK that provides an alternative space to stage exhibitions.
Concert for America hosted by Elton John and The One World:
Launched during Hong Kong’s usually buzzing Art Month, this
Together at Home organized by Lady Gaga. The events benefitted
platform features online viewing rooms for galleries, recorded
nonprofit organizations such as Feeding America and First
and livestreamed exhibition walkthroughs, interviews with Hong
Responders Children’s Foundation, as well as the World Health
Kong-based artists and collectors, studio visits, and online talks.
Organization’s COVID-19 solidarity response fund, respectively.
This initiative hopes to prevent further destabilization of the art world by the coronavirus and strives to present Hong Kong’s
The cancellation of theatrical runs, comedy shows, club nights,
vibrant and prosperous art scene.
and book launches affected the performing arts sector, too. Some festivals – like the well-known Edinburgh Festival and Hong
The worldwide cinema industry – similarly to that of television –
Kong Arts Festival – were canceled.
has been hit hard by the lockdown measures as shoots had to be put on hold or canceled. As a consequence, countries with prominent
Many institutions and performers attempted to adapt by
film industries, such as India and the USA, experienced a long
offering digital services. In particular, this resulted in the free
standstill in their filming and exports. The releases of big-budget
online streaming of previously recorded performances of many
movies have been pushed back and shoots for new movies have
companies – especially orchestral performances and plays from the
been halted, while movie theaters are closed to avoid the crowds.
Metropolitan Opera of New York, the Bolshoi Ballet company of
In contrast to the suspension of entertainment content production,
Moscow, and Teatro Alla Scala of Milan.
there has been an increase in the use of video streaming services, among them YouTube, Netflix and HBO, which also offer some of
Due to the closures, prospects are dim for creative talents of the
their content for free.
arts sector: revenues loss have had devastating effects and directly affected organizational staff, independent professionals and artists.
In an unprecedented step, the 93rd Oscars will see films that have
The sector of arts and culture is characterized by a high proportion
not been able to have a theatrical release, but have been streamed,
of self-employed, short-term, and project-based contract situations.
qualify for Best Picture and other categories. Current Academy
This means that many are ineligible for COVID-19 subsidies from
Awards rules regarding eligibility require a film to have been shown
their respective governments, forcing them to work without the
in a commercial motion picture theater in Los Angeles County
reassurance of a safety net.
at least three times a day for seven consecutive days. As far as film festivals are concerned, the Cannes Film Festival, originally
The majority of governments around the world announced
scheduled to occur in mid-May, was canceled. By contrast, the
economic bailout packages to provide as much support as possible
77th Venice International Film Festival, scheduled for early
to these sectors. At the same time, private companies, charities and
September, declared that it would still take place as originally
artists themselves have been raising funds to support and provide a
planned.
much-needed boost to the creative industry.
The global music industry and live entertainment have been
Following COVID-19, will these screen-based experiences stick to
facing many tough moments, especially for those who make a
the audience? As people are often keen to see the “real thing”, it is
living from live experiences like artists, technicians, roadies, and
not certain that online platforms could be a replacement for live
agents. Worldwide gigs, tours and famous festivals – Coachella,
experiences, but as a means of connecting people, it is certainly
Glastonbury, Primavera Sound, Sónar, and Sziget, to name a few –
working. Online experiences are not the solution for all art forms,
have been suspended: the coronavirus pandemic has effectively put
but there are new experimentations that push the technological
the multibillion-dollar concert industry on lockdown.
and creative limits of virtual presence. Arts will change with this pandemic, in ways people can only begin to guess.
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by
Macau Lifestyle Media
M
acau Lifestyle Media is the company behind MacauLifestyle.com, a premium English digital publication dedicated to promoting Macau. Founded by Katya Maia and Sally Victoria Benson, the website
was launched in 2016. MacauLifestyle.com offers unique and engaging content related to dining, events, arts, culture, and heritage. With a reader-friendly style supported by strong social media channels, it is easy to navigate and can be accessed anytime, anywhere. Macau Lifestyle provides relevant, up-to-date information to the local community and tourists alike also featuring a comprehensive city guide and events calendar.
Mostly known for its grand and shiny integrated resorts, Macau attracts visitors with lavishing hospitality, excellent dining and charming Portuguese touch, its artsy side is often overlooked. On your next trip to the sister SAR, we invite you to add an artsy twist to your itinerary and explore some of the local art galleries. Believe it or not, there is a thriving community of local and regional art. Macau is teeming with art galleries that host local and international exhibitions about culture, history, society, and people! We’ve put together a list of five art galleries to add onto your next Macau travel agenda. Enjoy and don’t forget to take photos and share on social media!
10 FANTASIA 10 Fantasia is quite a hidden gem located in St. Lazarus Parish and established in 2008. With two exhibition halls and 10 showrooms, it’s replete with displays and proudly promotes the products of Macau’s cultural, artistic and creative industries. Stroll around to see the works of local artists. There are also art classes and seminars that attract art enthusiasts and students. You can join the creative courses which include scriptwriting, photography, video and movie production, sculpting, painting, and more. In true essence as an art hub in the city, it constantly organizes animation parties, role-play events, artist gatherings and concerts.
Venue: No. 10, Calçada da lgreja de S. Lázaro Info: +853 2835 4582 | www.10fantasia.com
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MACAU ART GARDEN Macau Art Garden is the city’s first ever building dedicated to local art creation and exhibition. The five-story structure is complete with an exhibition hall showcasing artworks created by local and international artists, a cozy cafe with an art-book corner and a small space that sells artworks and other cultural and creative products. You’ll also find oil paintings, Chinese paintings, prints, ceramics, sculptures, and photographs, among other materials developed by talented local artists. It doubles up as a gallery for local artists to sell their work and introduce visitors of all ages to the world of art. If you’re looking for a nice hideaway to enjoy a beverage and some solitude, this quaint venue, with all its fine little details and artsy ambience, is just the perfect setting.
Opening hours: 11:00am–7:00pm except on Monday and public holidays Venue: Av. Do Dr. Rodrigo Rodrigues N. 265, Macau Info: +853 2852 0034 | www.macauartgarden.com
TAP SEAC GALLERY A testament to the creativity of the local residents, the Tap Seac Gallery has grown from strength to strength in showcasing arts and culture in the public arena. Organized by the Macau Special Administrative Regional Government’s Cultural Institute, the Tap Seac Gallery hosts visual art exhibitions and promotes a series of varied cultural events. The gallery contains an exhibition space divided into two parts, front, and back. Nestled in the venue is an enclosed patio that lets in natural light with a short flight of steps joining the front and back sections. The front half is the main exhibition space, while the back half is used variously for exhibitions, discussions, lectures or other activities. The gallery is equipped with computers connected to the Internet enabling visitors to access additional information on culture and the arts. Opening hours: seven days a week, including public holidays Venue: Cultural Affairs Bureau, Praco do Tap Seac, Macau Info: +853 2836 6866 | www.icm.gov.mo
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TAIPA VILLAGE ART SPACE A slick addition to the Taipa Village charm, this quaint gallery is all about promoting local talent in the art industry. Tucked away in a traditional shophouse in the charming scene of Taipa Village, the gallery serves as a cultural pilgrimage for visitors’ seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse in the historic and cultural charm of this landmark destination. Local artists are able to showcase their work under the beautiful backdrop of the area’s colorful history and unique heritage. Taipa Village’s contribution to the development of the cultural and creative industries in Macau is admirable and much appreciated.
Venue: 10 Rua dos Clerigos, Taipa Info: +853 2857 6118 | www.taipavillagemacau.com
OX WAREHOUSE Ox Warehouse was formerly known as the “Old Ladies’ House Art Space”. Notably founded in 2002, it has flourished as a private non-profit art association. They regularly organize exhibitions in various mediums including painting, sculpture, poster design, installation, sketching, and others to provide an experimental and exchange platform for local contemporary arts. Moreover, it offers workshops for adults and children in drawing, music, and other artistic activities. The Ox Warehouse highlights the attractive historic architecture and is equipped with a small library, art information corner, CD corner and a cafe to spend quality time before continuing browsing.
Venue: Rua do Volong, No.15, Macau Info: +853 2853 0026 | www.oxwarehouse.blogspot.com
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IAOHIN GALLERY iAOHiN Gallery is one of the pioneers of private art galleries in Macau. It is home to outstanding exhibitions of paintings, photography, sculptures, and jewelry. iAOHiN Gallery runs two spaces with one within an industrial building near Red Market, while the other near the St. Paul Ruins. The gallery also opened the iAOHiN Amber Gallery situated right opposite the Mandarin’s House at enchanting Largo do Lilau. The brand in entirety supports a variety of workshops, talks, concerts, and special events. It continues to aim to showcase the diverse artworks of both established and emerging, local, and international artists. It endeavors to inspire personal connections with ideas, cultures, and art.
Venue: Largo do Lilau No.37, Macau Info: +853 6617 0981 | www.facebook.com/pg/iaohingallery
BLANC ART A creative haven nestled in Macau, Blanc Art was launched in 2013. The gallery’s unique location highlights its distinguished purpose to offer a unique glimpse of the world of art in our city. Feel the inspiring vibe as you set foot inside the exhibition hall. Explore exhibitions of the contemporary work of established and emerging artists from Asia, Europe, and the USA. The art gallery also supports the careers of young artists from the region and encourages them to pursue their passion. Blanc Art aims to promote innovative artists and nurture artistic talent from around the world. Step inside this beautiful space for a lovely art appreciation moment and who knows you might just fall in love with a piece or two.
Venue: 9M Kin Heng Long Plaza, 259 Alameda Dr. Carlos D’Assumpcao, Macau Info: +853 2850 1055 | www.blancart.com
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