Duddell's, a prominent cultural and culinary destination in Hong Kong, has reopened its doors with a new solo exhibition by acclaimed Vietnamese-Danish artist Danh Võ. Titled "Let's Start Over," the exhibition runs from September 17, 2025, to April 6, 2026. This presentation follows a significant redesign of the venue by Andre Fu Studio, marking a fresh chapter for the establishment.
The exhibition explores themes of identity, memory, and heritage through Võ's unique artistic approach. It features his subtle use of everyday objects, religious relics, and personal archives, inviting viewers to engage with transformed materials on a deeper level.
Key Takeaways
- Duddell's Hong Kong reopens with a solo exhibition by Danh Võ.
- The exhibition, "Let's Start Over," runs from September 17, 2025, to April 6, 2026.
- It explores identity, memory, and heritage through everyday objects.
- The show coincides with Duddell's reopening after a major redesign.
- Curated by William Zhao, the title reflects a new beginning.
Duddell's Reimagined Space and Artistic Vision
Duddell's has undergone a substantial renovation by Andre Fu Studio. This redesign aims to enhance the venue's reputation as a fusion of cultural and culinary experiences. The reopening is celebrated with Danh Võ's exhibition, which aligns with the establishment's renewed focus.
The exhibition's title, "Let's Start Over," is a direct reference to a line from the classic film Happy Together. This title was chosen by curator William Zhao to mirror Duddell's own new beginning and fresh perspective.
Background on Duddell's
Duddell's is known for its unique concept, blending a Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant with a dynamic art space. It frequently hosts exhibitions, talks, and events, making it a key destination for both art enthusiasts and gourmands in Hong Kong. The venue often collaborates with leading artists and curators to present thought-provoking shows.
Danh Võ's Artistic Practice and Themes
Danh Võ is an internationally recognized artist, known for his breakthrough at the 2015 Venice Biennale. His work often involves reconfiguring common items, historical artifacts, and personal family records. These elements are then arranged into subtle yet powerful installations.
Võ's art does not rely on grand statements. Instead, it encourages viewers to find personal and collective meaning within the transformed materials. He often challenges traditional ideas of value and materiality by elevating ordinary objects to a sacred status.
"Võ masterfully reconfigures everyday objects, religious relics, and family archives into subtle, yet powerful, arrangements. The works do not make grand gestures, but instead invite viewers to find personal and collective meaning in transformed materials."
Exploring Identity and Memory Through Objects
The exhibition serves as a retrospective of Võ’s artistic journey since his first show at Duddell’s a decade ago. It highlights his ongoing exploration of identity, memory, and heritage. Visitors will observe how the artist uses seemingly simple objects to evoke complex narratives.
A notable aspect of Võ’s work featured in the exhibition is a series of gold-leaf cardboard pieces. These works exemplify his method of transforming the mundane into something revered. By applying gold leaf to ordinary cardboard, Võ questions conventional hierarchies of materials and their perceived worth.
Artist Insights
- Birthplace: Bà Rịa, Vietnam (1975)
- Nationality: Vietnamese-Danish
- Key Recognition: Danish Pavilion at the 56th Venice Biennale (2015)
- Common Materials: Found objects, historical documents, personal items, religious artifacts.
- Artistic Style: Conceptual art, installation, sculpture, often minimalist and contemplative.
The Curatorial Approach by William Zhao
William Zhao, the exhibition's curator, played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of "Let's Start Over." His choice of title specifically connects the artistic presentation with Duddell's own renewal. Zhao's curation emphasizes the quiet power of Võ's work.
According to Zhao, the exhibition aims to foster a forward-looking dialogue. It encourages visitors to engage with the resonant histories carried by the objects on display. This approach reinforces Duddell's reputation for blending culinary excellence with meaningful creative dialogue.
A Decade of Artistic Evolution
This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of Danh Võ’s artistic practice over the past decade. His first show at Duddell's established his presence in the Hong Kong art scene. This retrospective allows for a deeper understanding of his consistent themes and evolving methodologies.
The selection of works demonstrates Võ's commitment to subtle engagement. Each piece, whether a reconfigured artifact or a simple gold-leaf object, invites contemplation rather than immediate interpretation. This reflective quality is central to his artistic identity.
Impact on Hong Kong's Art Scene
Duddell's continues to be a significant platform for contemporary art in Hong Kong. By hosting artists like Danh Võ, it contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. Exhibitions here often draw both local and international audiences, strengthening Hong Kong's position as an Asian art hub.
The synergy between fine dining and fine art at Duddell's provides a distinct experience, distinguishing it from traditional galleries. This model encourages a broader audience to engage with contemporary art in a relaxed, luxurious setting.
Visitor Experience and Cultural Blend
Visitors to Duddell's can expect a unique experience that combines high-end dining with contemporary art. The exhibition is designed to complement the sophisticated atmosphere of the newly redesigned venue. This blend is a core part of Duddell's appeal.
The quiet nature of Võ's art encourages a meditative viewing experience. This contrasts with the dynamic energy of a restaurant, creating an interesting duality for guests. It provides a space for reflection amidst a bustling urban environment.
The integration of art into a culinary setting like Duddell's highlights a growing trend in cultural institutions. It allows art to be encountered in unexpected ways, making it more accessible to a diverse public. This approach aims to enrich the overall visitor experience.
Ongoing Cultural Contributions
Duddell's commitment to supporting contemporary artists remains strong. The "Let's Start Over" exhibition is another example of its dedication to presenting significant cultural programming. Such initiatives help foster a dynamic art scene in Hong Kong.
The exhibition is expected to draw considerable interest from art critics, collectors, and the general public. It reinforces Danh Võ's status as a leading voice in contemporary art and Duddell's role as a key cultural influencer.
