Yu Cheng-Ta's 'Tell Me What You Want' Exhibition at Hong-Gah Museum Explores Manila's Marketing Boys

From July 29 to September 17, 2017, the Hong-Gah Museum in Taipei showcased Taiwanese artist Yu Cheng-Ta's solo exhibition titled 'Tell Me What You Want.' This exhibition comprised four mockumentary videos—Malate, David, Joara, and The Shop (all 2017)—which delved into the connections with marketing boys in Manila's Malate area. Over a span of two years, Yu forged friendships with local marketers referred to as 'David.' The exhibition's design featured vibrant orange tones and utilized four screens to create a layered soundtrack reflecting Malate's nightlife. Two large photographic portraits of marketing boys acted as curtains. The Shop highlighted Junio's dream of starting a shop, while Yu explored the intricate dynamics of exchange between art and marketing, challenging the boundaries of friendship and transactional interactions.