Embark on an 'Art-Venture' at OCT-LOFT

During the 21st China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair (ICIF), held from May 22 to 26, OCT-LOFT, serving as an ICIF subvenue, hosted a series of events under the theme "Art-Venture."

From May 22 to 25, the T-Street Creative Mart, a well-known market in Shenzhen featuring trendy gifts, stylish accessories, and unique crafts, featured more than 80 brands offering paintings, music albums, handmade ceramics, aromas, and other artworks. Over the weekend, workshops on old item renovation and bamboo weaving gave visitors hands-on opportunities to bring art into everyday life.

A scene at the T-Street Creative Mart at OCT-LOFT over the weekend. Photos courtesy of OCT-LOFT

The outdoor "Playscape" exhibition presented installations created by Macao designer Au Chon Hin and Shanghai designer Han Wenbin, blending creative design with interactive experiences. Curated by Macao curator Lam Sio Man, the exhibition took inspiration from sculptor and artist Isamu Noguchi's original "Playscapes," encouraging public participation and interaction.

Au is displaying a series of windmill-like, vibrant installations set among trees and plants. Influenced by modern pop art, Au is known for his forward-thinking and bold vision. His fish and bird installations for this exhibition appear to roam freely in plants, symbolizing a yearning for freedom.

Au Chon Hin's installations.

Han Wenbin's installations.

Han installs simple yet evocative sculptures of cats and people on the ground, reminding urban dwellers to slow down and appreciate the beauty of life. These minimalist designs convey a relaxed, easy-going vibe in response to the hustle and bustle of city life.

This coming Sunday afternoon, both designers, along with two others from Osaka and Shanghai, will deliver a lecture followed by guided tours of their works. Additionally, galleries and art organizations within OCT-LOFT will continue to present diverse exhibitions through August.

Visitors relax on Han Wenbin's installations.

Posters of the "Playscape" exhibition is seen at OCT-LOFT.

'Playscape' exhibition: Through June 25

Venue: 2/F Platform, Block A4-A5, North Area, OCT-LOFT, Nanshan District (南山区华侨城创意文化园北区 A4-A5栋二楼平台)

Metro: Line 2 to Qiaocheng North Station (侨城北站), Exit B

Lecture & tour guide: 3–5 p.m., June 1

Venue: 2/F, mindpark, Block E5, South Area, OCT-LOFT, Nanshan District (南山区华侨城创意文化园南区E5栋mindpark创意公园2F)

Metro: Line 1 to Qiaocheng East Station (侨城东站), Exit A