Media preview: 6th March 2015 (Friday), 16:00
Opening: 6th March 2015 (Friday), 18:00
A gap: a narrow chasm in between two zones, a liminal space that can disappear and reappear in a split second. Unlike a completely shut door that divides a space into two, a door that is almost closed except for a tiny crack suggests multiple possibilities. From this gap stories begin to unfold.
“Mind the gap” is the first exhibition planned by the newly formed artistic panel of 1a space. The panel consists of eight artists and writers from very different backgrounds, whose latest creative experimentations are showcased in the current exhibition: Annie Wan, Ng Ka Chun, Evelyn Char, Ivy Ma, Reds Cheung, Elvis Yip, Mark Chung and Ian Chung. Premises of the works range from the mining of personal histories to direct or indirect engagement with social issues and collective memories.
As the panel was formed in 1a space’s 17th year, we cannot help but pause to ask ourselves: what does it mean to defend the position of an alternative art space in our times? What kind of challenges are we facing? What is so “alternative” and “artistic” about this space?
In the past, alternative art spaces are by definition antagonistic existences that resist and subvert institutional and capitalistic logic. Following the shift of contemporary art towards the relational since the 1990s, it has become increasingly necessary for the alternative art space to re-define itself in relation to other types of art institutions. 1a space has been focusing on local culture and cross-disciplinary knowledge transfer with its projects in recent years, and while the artistic panel plans to further develop in these two directions, it will also take on a more proactive approach in building relationships and constructing space for conversations. We will establish links with various types of art spaces, create a platform for art criticism, and promote trans-regional and cross-disciplinary exchanges with artist residencies, seminars and medium- to long-term projects.
The critical tradition of 1a space will continue to be honoured and defended, as we will carry on transgressing and challenging boundaries. By exploring the overlapping space between art and non-art, and by generating discussions and negotiations, we will look for possible ways to redefine boundaries along constantly shifting gaps. To go on adventures in various gaps, to start small revolutions with art, and to build an independent art space that belongs to our times: these are our ambitions in the years to come.
