Henry Shum's 'Vortices' at Empty Gallery Blurs Art Historical Canons

Henry Shum, an artist from Hong Kong, showcased his first solo exhibition titled 'Vortices' at Empty Gallery from September 26 to November 21, 2020. The exhibition included 12 paintings that challenge conventional artistic styles. In 'Annunciation' (2020), the Virgin Mother is portrayed in muddy ochres, accompanied by a hazy Gabriel, while 'Woman and Child' (2020) presents an ambiguous view of maternal bonds. 'Memory of a Landscape' (2020) creates disorientation with its algae puddles. Shum’s approach, inspired by Lui Shou-Kwan, utilizes thin layers of oil paint. 'Ancient of Days (Descending Elephant Fish)' (2020) incorporates Qing dynasty motifs, appearing alongside 'Annunciation' like worn frescoes, with architectural features that alter spatial perception. Paintings such as 'Revolution of Night' (2020) delve into dream-like logic, examining subconscious realms and spiritual connections.