Best Galleries & Art Exhibitions in Hong Kong to Check Out This Sept. 2023

From artworks that untangle and explore all the complex emotions of womanhood, to rare treasures of Chinese history that were once thought to be lost, here are the best art galleries and exhibitions in Hong Kong to catch during this month of September 2023.

Barminski: 'Moon Lands on Man' at JPS Art Gallery

In celebration of JPS gallery's 10th anniversary, "Moon Lands On Man" leaps into the enigmatic world of the Apollo 11 conspiracy. While debates rage on about the moon landing's authenticity, American artist Barminski offers a witty and darkly comical perspective on this contentious historical issue.

Best known for his innovative and comic book-like cardboard sculptures, Barminski has made his mark on the art scene through significant showcases like his contribution to Banksy's "Dismaland" in 2015 and the "Museum Belowground" exhibition at LANDMARK back in 2021. Blending humour, satire, and engagement, Barminski's creations transcend mere art pieces to become interactive experiences. The exhibition promises a fresh lens on an old debate, sprinkled with wit and a glimpse of earnest contemplation.

When: Now until Sept. 17

Where: JPS Gallery, Shops 218 - 219, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong

‘Women’s FREESTYLE’ Group Exhibition at SC Gallery

SC Gallery showcases "Women’s FREESTYLE," spotlighting four emerging female artists and each of their unique and dynamic voices.

Finnish artist Nobody Here explores gender fluidity with her “hän” series, toying with the gender-neutral pronoun rooted in her native language. Hong Kong’s Doris Chui melds personal memories with surreal hues, reflecting on loneliness through striking canvas works. Cho Wing-ki captures life's beauty with a nostalgia-tinged tenderness, from family moments to youthful camaraderie captured in slice-of-life depictions. Lastly, Ann Ng intertwines history with personal memory, linking past and present in textured, fluid forms.

When: Now until Sept. 23

Where: SC Gallery, Unit 2, 19/F, Sungib Industrial Centre, 53 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong

Pietro Roccasalva: Recent Paintings at Massimo De Carlo, Tai Kwun

In his "Recent Paintings" exhibition at MASSIMO DE CARLO in Hong Kong, Roccasalva dazzles with a sophisticated interplay of recurring motifs from his career with added layered meanings. Showcasing creations from 2023, viewers are introduced to new additions from his famed "La Sposa Occidentale" and "Just Married Machine" series.

Marking Roccasalva's debut solo show in Asia and specifically at this Hong Kong branch of MASSIMO DE CARLO gallery, he masterfully interlaces rich symbols, drawing deeply from literature, film, philosophy, and shared cultural myths. While the artworks are contemporary, they echo Roccasalva's two-decade journey of discovery, experimentation, and intellectual vigour.

When: Aug. 31 – Oct. 21

Where: Shop 03 -205 & 206, Barrack Block Second Floor, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong

The Grand Gathering of the Century: Zodiac Heads from the Yuanmingyuan and Important Treasures

Intertwining ancient Chinese historical discoveries with future-facing technologies, this exhibition presents treasured artefacts from Yuanmingyuan that have been lost for over a century. The main attraction presents four zodiac heads, alongside ancient treasures marking pivotal moments in Chinese culture.

The exhibition delves into China-West exchanges from the 17^th to 19^th centuries, underscoring the importance of preserving global cultural heritage. Collaborating with the Singaporean Asian Civilisations Museum, all 12 zodiac sculptures will be showcased in a re-imagined Great Fountain from Yuanmingyuan. Audiences can immerse themselves in the past using AR, MR, and AI technologies, supported by educational resources for all ages.

When: Sept. 5 – Oct. 31

Where: Indra and Harry Banga Gallery, 18/F, Lau Ming Wai Academic Building, City University, 83 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon