Head Shot (2020), by Nicasio Fernandez. Photo: Handout
Source:
https://scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/arts-music/article/3078272/hong-kong-gallery-finds-reasons-be-cheerful Arts & Music
Hong Kong gallery finds reasons to be cheerful with exhibition of contemporary art
‘Rise and Shine’ features vibrantly coloured works – some fun, others serious – by the likes of Gosha Levochkin, Josh Reames and LeRoy Neiman
Knicks vs Lakers (2011), by LeRoy Neiman, which is part of the “Rise And Shine” exhibition at Over the Influence. Photo: Handout
The coronavirus outbreak has given the art world little to smile about. Central gallery Over the Influence hopes to bring some colour back into our lives with its latest exhibition, “Rise and Shine”, a collection of works by United States-based contemporary artists, which runs until May 9.
“We chose the title as a response to the current situation in Hong Kong – and the world,” says gallery director Julliana Choi, who wanted to share a positive message. “The works are brightly coloured and spirited, just like the artists.”
Highlights include artworks by Gosha Levochkin, whose large-scale acrylic pieces follow the tradition of ligne claire (a drawing style pioneered by Hergé, the Belgian creator of comic book series The Adventures of Tintin), and Josh Reames, who combines historical art references, computer graphics, labels and everyday objects to make a statement about how we process information in the virtual and real worlds.
These sit alongside the hyper-expressive otherworldly figures of Nicasio Fernandez, the hand-carved wooden sculptures by Ryan Schneider and the surreal works of Camilla Engstrom.
Also on show are pieces by the late LeRoy Neiman, known for brightly coloured paintings and posters of sporting occasions, many inspired by his travels in the 1960s to leading events such as the Olympics and Wimbledon.
A basketball lover, the exhibition features one of Neiman’s most famous works, created in 2011 and capturing the spirit of the late former pro player Kobe Bryant, who won five NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers. Titled Knicks vs Lakers, the vibrant painting shows a high-flying Bryant stealing the ball from Jeremy Lin. The death of Bryant in January at the age of 41, in a helicopter crash that also claimed the life of his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, lends the piece a new-found resonance.
While some of the artists’ messages are serious, there is no doubting the cheery vibe the exhibition exudes. Just remember to keep a safe viewing distance. Or better yet, book a private viewing.
“Rise and Shine” is on at Over the Influence, 1/F, 159 Hollywood Road, Central. For more information, visit overtheinfluence.com .