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Villepin Gallery Founder Arthur de Villepin on 'The Loss of the Human Face?' Exhibition and Art's Social Function

exhibition · 2026-04-20

Arthur de Villepin, the founder of Villepin Gallery, speaks about the exhibition 'The Loss of the Human Face?', which is on display until November 2022 at 53 Hollywood Road Central, Hong Kong Island. This exhibition showcases works by modern and contemporary masters who delve into the essence of portraiture and its connection to humanity, particularly in light of the pandemic. Influences include historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Diego Velázquez, as well as contemporary artists such as Francis Bacon. Featured artists Zeng Fanzhi and Yukimasa Ida present their distinctive styles. Since its opening in March 2020, the gallery prioritizes art over commerce and organizes events for collectors, supported by eight researchers and essays from Edwin Becker and Didier Ottinger. Future initiatives involve preserving Zao Wou-ki's studio in France. The gallery operates from Tuesday to Saturday, 11 am to 7 pm, and Sunday, 11 am to 6 pm.

Key facts

  • The exhibition 'The Loss of the Human Face?' is on view at Villepin Gallery through November 2022.
  • Arthur de Villepin is the founder and director of Villepin Gallery.
  • The gallery opened in March 2020 in Hong Kong during protests and the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Featured artists include Francis Bacon, Zeng Fanzhi, Yukimasa Ida, and historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci.
  • Curatorial contributions come from Edwin Becker of the Van Gogh Museum and Didier Ottinger of Centre Pompidou.
  • Villepin Gallery has acquired Zao Wou-ki's studio in Gaudigny, France, for future artist residencies and programs.
  • The gallery is located at 53 Hollywood Road Central, Hong Kong Island, with specific opening hours.
  • De Villepin emphasizes art's social function over commercial value, inspired by collectors like Peggy Guggenheim.

Entities

Artists

  • Arthur de Villepin
  • Leonardo da Vinci
  • Diego Velázquez
  • Rembrandt
  • Francis Bacon
  • Zeng Fanzhi
  • Yukimasa Ida
  • Zao Wou Ki
  • Anselm Kiefer
  • Miquel Barcelo
  • Peggy Guggenheim
  • Heinz Berggruen

Institutions

  • Villepin Gallery
  • ArtReview
  • Tate Britain
  • Van Gogh Museum
  • Centre Pompidou

Locations

  • Hong Kong
  • Hong Kong Island
  • China
  • United States
  • India
  • France
  • Gaudigny
  • Asia Pacific
  • Hollywood Road Central

Sources