The Latent Effect of Virtuality and Adversity: Hong Kong as a Laboratory for Exploring the Evolution and Prospects of Art

Abstract

This study aims to explore how the interplay between virtuality and adversity shapes the evolution and prospects of art, with a particular focus on the unique context of Hong Kong. By examining historical cases from various contexts and analysing how Hong Kong's art practitioners respond to challenges, this research seeks to uncover the opportunities and obstacles in art innovation and evolution. Hong Kong will serve as an ideal observation point, or even a laboratory, to understand broader trends in the art world influenced by the dynamics of virtuality and adversity.

The study is divided into two parts. Firstly, the analysis begins by examining the historical intersection of virtuality and adversity, utilizing Michel Foucault's 'genealogy' theory as a framework. This theory emphasizes the examination of historical discontinuities, interruptions, and neglected or repressed events. Its objective is to provide insight into how these historical contingencies have influenced present-day understandings of truth and the profound consequences that arise from the interplay between virtuality and adversity, thereby foreshadowing present-day and future patterns. The research endeavours to comprehend contemporary circumstances and investigate the potential for novel interpretations and understandings by drawing insights from past incidents. Secondly, the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2019 marks a period of significant adversity, presenting a unique opportunity for this study. The timeframe from April 2020 to November 2022 has been selected as a focal period, with Hong Kong’s highly integrated art and technology environment serving as its foundation. As a practitioner in the arts, the researcher employed a practice-led research approach, studying the projects in which she participated during this period as experimental cases. The concept of using Hong Kong as a laboratory draws inspiration from Alexander Dorner’s "Kraftwerk" in museum practices, emphasising the importance of energy and innovation. The experimental approach is shaped by John Dewey’s reflective thinking concepts, aiming to gain a deep understanding of the current context through a series of experimental cases. This section explores how interactions with virtuality amid adversity shape artistic creation, aiming to explore new practices and strategies that can expand future directions for art development.

The experiences of this period may mark the beginning of a new intellectual trend. Through experimental projects, this research not only reinterprets historical narratives but also opens new avenues for artistic development, suggesting potential paths for future exploration. The insights gained from these projects provide a valuable foundation for future research and practice, offering important considerations for envisioning and shaping the future of art.

Date of Award	28 Oct 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	City University of Hong Kong
Supervisor	MoBen BENAYOUN (Supervisor)