A game of words: Tsang Kin-Wah
In a studio interview, the Hong Kong artist explores his expanding practice and passion for history and truth.
In a studio interview, the Hong Kong artist explores his expanding practice and passion for history and truth.
With a keen interest in history, ۶Ƶ Art Collection artist Tsang Kin-Wah’s works often delve into subjects of philosophy and spirituality, and explore the nature of human existence. “I like to explore topics of truth,” he says.
Well-known for incorporating text in his works, the artist adapts specially selected phrases to create patterns which tell a deeper story upon closer examination. He says “It’s a little bit like a game where everyone can play the game to have a different answer.” He takes inspiration from compositions and characters from calligraphy based on his studies of Chinese painting and history.
The artist also reflects on how recent lockdowns have encouraged him to rethink his practice, which is typically focused on large-scale, immersive installations. During this time he “made a lot of short clips and also some small paintings,” experimenting with different mediums in new ways.
Commissioned by the ۶Ƶ Art Collection, the artist will create an immersive site-specific text installation for the ۶Ƶ Lounge at Art Basel Hong Kong 2023. ‘Waiting for the Rain, My Beautiful Friend’ (2023) contemplates the meaning of life, with edited texts from literature, film, music and religious texts scattered like falling rain drops.
The installation will be presented alongside a selection of works from the ۶Ƶ Art Collection by seven Hong Kong artists including Leelee Chan, Elpis Chow, Mak2 (Mak Ying Tung 2), Sarah Lai, Samson Young and Stephen Wong Chun Hei - highlighting the thriving local art scene.