Sophia Hotung: Choreopolis

EVENT DESCRIPTION

Wyndham Social and a|n Gallery invite art enthusiasts and culture aficionados to immerse themselves in the vibrancy of urban life through Eurasian artist Sophia Hotung’s latest collection, “Choreopolis”. Running from 15 March to 28 April, the exhibition promises to captivate audiences with its dynamic portrayal of everyday urban landscapes infused with the energy of musical theatre.

“Choreopolis” serves as a compelling reflection on the intricate roles we play in society, as passers-by are transformed into members of high-octane musical theatre ensembles. Drawing inspiration from the thoroughfares of Hong Kong, Hotung celebrates the joy of traversing everyday locations, infusing her artwork with the pulsating rhythm of crosswalks, roads, transport links, and walkways. Through fast-paced backgrounds, dynamic dancers, and a recurring motif of circles and spheres, Hotung masterfully captures the essence of movement and spontaneity.

The genesis of “Choreopolis” stems from Hotung’s personal journey of empowerment and liberation. After being bedridden from autoimmune diseases in 2020, she started using mobility aides to regain her strength and freedom to navigate the streets of Hong Kong without fear of incapacitation. Returning to the world outside her bedroom as Hong Kong began emerging from its first year of the pandemic, Sophia discovered a newfound appreciation for the city’s vibrant energy and settings. The excitement of movement sparked a vision of dancing in the streets and celebrating the once mundane thoroughfares with exuberance.

The exhibition takes place at Wyndham Social, an art and cultural space located on Wyndham Street in Central. Since its establishment in August 2022, Wyndham Social has been committed to supporting local artists and providing a platform for them to showcase their work, encouraging interaction among cultural enthusiasts. In collaboration with Sophia Hotung and a|n Gallery, this exhibition during Hong Kong Art Month presents a vibrant and rhythmic showcase that invites viewers who navigate the city every day to reimagine urban life, breaking free from preconceived notions of the city. This aligns with Wyndham Social’s vision of injecting dynamism and vitality into Wyndham Street and its surrounding community, fostering a sense of community awareness and connecting different sectors and groups.

Taking advantage of Hong Kong’s renowned Art Month, Wyndham Social, together with Sophia Hotung, will host various sharing sessions, masterclasses, and performances, aiming to present a fresh urban rhythm and aesthetics, as well as the multifaceted aspects of Hong Kong, to local and international audiences.

ABOUT THE ARTIST / ORGANISER

Sophia Hotung is a Eurasian Hong Kong artist, best known for creating The Hong Konger art collection and Anthology book in 2021 and 2022. She has seven chronic illnesses and developed her art career by teaching herself digital art on an iPad while bedridden 2021. She continues to create visual art exclusively on the iPad and speaks regularly at schools and events about setbacks and resilience through her disability story. Hotung also runs Pangolin Society, a local company that works to fundraise and provide discounted or pro-bono art services to Hong Kong charities.