Hong Kong-born artist inspired by wuxia martial arts novels creates intriguing works filled with visually lavish nightmares
- Howie Tsui says novels by the likes of Jin Yong influence his practice, especially since they were often adapted into popular 1980s Hong Kong television series
- His first solo exhibition in Hong Kong, ‘The Cradle Rocks Above an Abyss’, is currently showing at Hanart TZ Gallery in Kwai Chung
The sound of kung fu fighting can be heard as soon as visitors step from the lift outside Hanart TZ Gallery
It comes from an animated video called Parallax Chambers (2018-), a key work in “The Cradle Rocks Above an Abyss”, Howie Tsui’s first solo exhibition in Hong Kong.
In the film, recurring characters in ancient Chinese costumes are seen either in combat, practising moves or just quietly meditating inside a room or a cave.
Once in a while, laser beams zap through the screen, briefly illuminating the dark, confined spaces in which a bizarre cast, including a monk missing the top half of his head, are trying to become stronger fighters.
A separate work made from a wooden wing chun dummy stands guard at the other end of the gallery, overlooking a dazzling display of equally intriguing paintings – elaborate ink and paint drawings on mulberry or rice paper that blend Chinese ink techniques with contemporary manga.
