Thematic Preface:
Reframing Strangeness: Ha Bik Chuen’s Motherboards and Collagraphs
Para Site is delighted to showcase the exhibition Reframing Strangeness: Ha Bik Chuen’s Motherboards and Collagraphs, an event that not only celebrates the centenary of Ha Bik Chuen’s birth but also offers a fresh perspective on his remarkable printmaking practice.
Ha Bik Chuen, a renowned Hong Kong artist, was born a century ago, and his artistic journey traversed tumultuous periods of history. He witnessed and actively participated in the transformative events that shaped Hong Kong’s cultural and artistic landscape. From the Japanese occupation during World War II to the city’s rapid urbanization as it became a global financial hub, Ha Bik Chuen’s artistic expression was deeply influenced by the historical currents flowing around him.
Often described as a master of mixed media, Ha Bik Chuen’s artistry extended beyond traditional artistic boundaries. His profound experimentation led him to explore unconventional techniques and mediums, showcasing his extraordinary ability to capture the essence of his subjects. In this exhibition, we revisit Ha’s lesser-known but equally captivating printmaking practice.
The exhibition title, Reframing Strangeness, alludes to our intention of offering a fresh perspective on Ha’s work. By refocusing on Ha’s printmaking legacy, we aim to highlight the unique manifestations of strangeness that permeate throughout his art. These motherboards and collagraphs, produced in the later years of his prolific career, exemplify his constant exploration of new possibilities.
Notably, Ha Bik Chuen’s motherboards stand as symbolic artifacts representing the intersection of technology and art. As Ha embraced the digital age and witnessed the rise of computer technology, he recognized its potential to expand his artistic horizons. By incorporating computer components into his art-making process, Ha incorporated the concept of ‘strangeness’ within his work, blurring the boundaries between traditional and modern mediums.
The exhibition also highlights Ha’s collagraphs, a printmaking technique that involves building textured surfaces on a plate. Ha’s collagraphs not only capture the materiality of his subjects but also depict the complexities of Hong Kong’s urban environment. Through this technique, Ha skillfully united the city’s dynamic energy with his own artistic vision.
As we commemorate Ha Bik Chuen’s centenary, Reframing Strangeness: Ha Bik Chuen’s Motherboards and Collagraphs endeavors to pay homage to his artistic legacy while shedding new light on his printmaking practice. By examining the convergence of history, technology, and artistic experimentation, this exhibition invites viewers to explore the multifaceted nature of Ha Bik Chuen’s creative genius.
