The Hong Kong art scene and current show Mind the G(r)a(s)p: a chat with Para Site’s new director Billy Tang

Para Site has a reputation for independence and the championing of local artists, something that new director Billy Tang wishes to continue

He talks about the current show Mind the G(r)a(s)p and finding different ways to support local talent and curators

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Billy Tang, executive director and curator of Para Site in Hong Kong talks about the local art scene, the impact of the 2019 protests, and the National Security Law. Photo: Para Site

Published: 4:00pm, 23 May 2022Updated: 3:54pm, 24 May 2022

These are interesting times for Billy Tang to take the reins as executive director and curator of Para Site, a contemporary arts centre with strong international standing for its independent attitude and championing of local artists and curators.

After 11 years of directorship under Cosmin Costinas, who is moving to Berlin, Germany, it’s time for a new chapter for Para Site. The board interviewed many curators in the region, and Tang, then senior curator at the Rockbund Art Museum in Shanghai, was invited to the process. He ultimately won the role to steer Para Site into the future.

“It’s exciting,” said Tang, a UK native, on his first day at work. “We have a lot of infrastructure that can support artists in a lot of different ways. At this moment, it’s important for local artists to retain a certain degree of visibility, within the city and outside Hong Kong as well.”

Para Site was founded in 1996, a year before Hong Kong’s return to China, as an artists’ collective and exhibition space run by local practitioners such as Phoebe Man Ching-ying, Leung Chi-wo, Sara Wong Chi-hang and Leung Mee-ping.

Billy Tang, executive director and curator of Para Site. Photo: Para Site

Over the years, the non-profit has evolved into an institution with an international programme often reflecting contemporary social and political issues, led by a team of professional curators with diverse backgrounds. Until recently, every exhibition pamphlet would include its statement of support for Hong Kong people’s pursuit of democracy. That was removed, however, after the 2019 anti-government protests.