Lydia Moawad,
What are you exhibiting?
The true beauty of a painting lies in its individuality. This exhibition focuses on memories, on emotions and on the occasional escape from a busy schedule. The goal in my paintings is to show that even in repetition we achieve unique situations. For me, creation is, at the same time, meditation and revelation: that of unity – unity between the body and the spirit, between dream and reality. Shapes and landscapes are found as a reminder of times of serenity and relaxation, and are thus a recurring theme in the artworks in this exhibition as a linkage in our daily lives.
How many years have you been exhibiting at ACAS?
I’ve participated in many art fairs and biennales – the Tokyo Art Fair in Omotesando Hills, the Florence Biennale at Fortezza da Basso, and the Europe Art Fair in Rotterdam – and now I’m pleased to participate in the Asia Contemporary Art Show in Hong Kong for the first time, and I’m delighted to share my art.
What are you most looking forward to about ACAS?
I’m very excited to exhibit in the show because even if I’m known as an established artist and painter in different countries, I feel that being in Hong Kong and sharing my artistic vision with this place adds a special touch and opens all the doors of opportunity in this world.
Describe the HK art scene in three words:
Essence of inspiration. My latest collection is a thought-provoking body of work that challenges you to consider how the introduction of a single and simple new element – a circle – alters your perception of the subject. The circle is a universal symbol with numerous long-established meanings: unity, infinity, the sun and moon, the sacred. I am trying to break these established views by juxtaposing halo-like circles that traditionally suggest a sense of virtue with contrasting elements such as bared bodies that confront notions of piety.
In my paintings, the circles have no pre-determined or prescribed meaning. They are mere shapes. Their addition to layered abstract portraits that employ a vivid palette and dynamic gestural brush strokes invites a new dimension of interpretation.
How many years have you been exhibiting at ACAS?
Two years.
Why do you like exhibiting at the show?
ACAS is ideal for getting my work in front of a wider audience. It’s also a great opportunity to meet and exchange cross-cultural experiences with international and local sellers, buyers, collectors, critics, gallery owners and museum curators. And hopefully there’ll be some decent sales as well!
Describe the HK art scene in three words:
Massive, global, hub.