It’s the week of Art Basel Hong Kong! That means fairs, gallery shows, museum exhibitions, and plenty of events – all taking place here in Hong Kong. We are here to guide you through the must-see and be-seen-at spots around town. All week-long we’ll bring you “Insider Tips” from those in-the-know on what to see, do, eat, and drink. First up, Alan Lo, member of the Art Committee of Duddell’s.
#HappyHour
My new favourite is Fish School, an edgy space tucked away in the back of an alley in Sai Ying Pun featuring local culinary hero David Lai‘s modern European interpretation of locally caught seafood. Ping Pong owned by my friend and fellow collector Hugh Zimmern is also a super cool gin and tonic bar a block away on second street. Sang Kee located very close to the fair in an unassuming office building on Hennessy road is a super local down to earth cantonese restaurant that I frequent. Make sure to order sweet and sour pork and ask you waiter to show you a selection of the freshest seafood. The Pawn is the grand dame owing to its beautiful historic architecture and due to its proximity to the fair this institution (recently brought on board uber chef Tom Aikens as culinary director) has over the years become HK’s unofficial “kunsthalle.” It’s also where you’ll find some of the coolest parties during Art Basel, if you can get past the bouncers!
#BestinHK
I know it sounds touristy but do take the tram! It’s the best way to experience the city. When you’re completely art’d out after a few days at the fair, head to Bowen Road for a run! It’s an amazing picturesque 4km trail that spans from central to happy valley. Also head to Wanchai market for a walk. This famous market is where you will find freshest of everything from amazing seafood to vegetables to chicken. Finish off with dinner at Serge et Le Phoque which serves super creative French fare in a contemporary edgy space. Charles the host/owner will take good care of you!
#TopArtSpot
Non-profit Para Site has been consistently doing great exhibitions especially since moving to the new and larger space in North Point last year. “Things that can Happen” is another exciting new artist driven space cofounded by Lee Kit and Chantal Wong. The non profit chose to be located in Sham Shui Po a sleepy old neighbourhood in Kowloon far away from the gallery district and has been introducing amazing young HK artists such as Wong Ping and Chloe Cheuk as well as a residency programme featuring retinal as well as international names. Duddell’s continues its tradition of collaborating with international institutions. This year we will be working with Dallas Museum of Art to present a solo exhibition of NY-based artist Margaret Lee.
#MyHKTreat
Take half and day and explore Kowloon, or the dark side as many calls it! It’s where you find the real authentic hk! Take the MTR to Sham Shui Po, my current favourite neighbourhood, and just walk down the different streets to check out the second hand electronics market and amazing range of local street food.
For more info on Hong Kong, check out the Whitewaller app, available for free in iTunes.
