Inner Alchemy — Hanison Lau Hok-Shing, Julia Steiner

Inner Alchemy

Hanison Lau Hok-shing x Julia Steiner 

Curated by Angelika Li 

7 – 28 June 2024 

PF25 cultural projects, Basel, Switzerland

The 'Homeland in Transit' series, initiated in 2019, delves into the narratives and imaginations of 'homeland' from Hong Kong perspectives. It intricately examines boundaries, roots, diaspora, cultural identity, colonial ideologies, displacement, and interweaves them with experiences and voices from other parts of the world. By metaphorically venturing into hydrological cycles—water, clouds, and wind—and reflecting on the concepts of disappearance and silence, the series navigates challenging landscapes, contemplating human conditions and resilience. 

In response to traumas and catastrophes, many questions arise: What can we do? How can we contribute? What steps can we take? How do we react when faced with states of fear, distress, powerlessness, and vulnerability? Instead of solely focusing on external observations, do we also take a moment to turn inward to our inner selves, replenishing our essence, reviving our vital energy, and nurturing spiritual qualities? Can we view the alchemists' pursuit of transmutation as a symbol of transforming inner turmoil into strength?

In the 11th chapter, 'Inner Alchemy,' the focus is on introspection towards our well-being and inner selves as a process of healing. Curated by Angelika Li, the exhibition brings together Hong Kong artist Hanison Lau Hok-shing and Swiss artist Julia Steiner to cultivate a dialogue through their art. Lau's enchanting sculptures, created between 2014 and 2022, evoke a scholar's cabinet of curiosities, intertwining literati fascination with miniature landscapes. This exhibition marks their debut in Europe. Working in an instinctive language, Steiner’s drawings and sculptures reflect her mindscapes reacting to the space and context. Her new drawings and a newly commissioned site-specific installation for this exhibition will be unveiled at PF25 cultural projects.

Press Enquiries

connect@PF25.org +41 7678 17678

Events

Vernissage

Friday, 7 June, 6-8pm 

PF25 cultural projects

Entrance through Nadelberg 33 into Pfeffergässlein 25, Basel 

Exhibiton until 28 June, by appointment only connect@PF25.org +41 7678 17678

Enquiries: Celine Ngai (team@PF25.org) 

Art Basel VIP Program

To celebrate the exhibition, ‘Inner Mixologist Hours’ will feature a unique offering crafted by Traditional Chinese Medicine Dietician Modanzski from London. Her seasonal recipe, designed exclusively for this event, is anticipated to offer a harmonious blend of wellness and indulgence. 

This event is by invitation from Art Basel only. 

Acknowledgement

This exhibition is presented by PF25 cultural projects and funded by Christoph Merian Stiftung and private sponsors, and supported our volunteers and community whose contributions made this project possible.