Hong Kong Whispers

The works presented below are diptychs that each combine
a drawing by Arpais Du Bois and a photograph by Michael Wolf.

Gallery FIFTY ONE is pleased to present ‘Hong Kong Whispers’, a new publication by Hannibal Books. This book is the result of a close collaboration between Michael Wolf and Arpaïs Du Bois in which the artists produced works side by side in Hong Kong, back in 2014, fed by their experiences and discussions. ‘Hong Kong Whispers’ creates a fascinating dialogue between two contrasting but complementary artistic approaches: Michael’s stunning series of photographs and Arpaïs’s acerbic and ambiguous drawings. To celebrate this project, brought back to life by Barbara Wolf, Michael’s widow, the gallery will present a selection of paired images, each editions of 3, drawn directly from the book. Come celebrate the 10 year anniversary of their collaboration and Michael’s everlasting legacy. In loving memory of Michael Wolf.

In 2012, Michael Wolf and Arpaïs Du Bois embarked on a transformative journey, turning ‘Where we met’, an artistic collaboration between Arpaïs Du Bois and Yamamoto Masao (°1957) in 2011, which culminated in a book, inside out. “What a wonderful project” Michael remarked, igniting the spark of collaboration between them. In late 2013, during one of his visits to Arpaïs Du Bois’ studio in Antwerp, he casually suggested, “Hong Kong would be good for you”. Fuelled by a sense of suffocation and an urgent need for change, Arpaïs Du Bois decided to take a break from teaching at Sint Lucas Antwerp and accepted Michael’s invitation to visit Hong Kong starting February 2014.

Upon arriving in Hong Kong, Du Bois was overwhelmed by a wave of emotions, surrender, wonder, absorption, overstimulation, and alienation, yet amidst it all, a strange sense of recognition. Together, and at times alone, they delved into the enigmatic biotope of the city’s back alleys. During their explorations, Wolf revealed hidden facets of the city, such as brightly lit rooms filled with the fervour of gambling. They walked in silence, and exchanged stories, attempting to articulate the ineffable—specific lights, colours, and emotions. And amidst it all, they savoured the simple pleasures, like finding the perfect tofu at sundry stalls. 

In the chaos of Hong Kong’s streets, Arpaïs Du Bois sought to immerse herself in the essence of the city, absorbing its sights, sounds, and sensations, allowing the white noise to clear from her mind. As their time together drew to a close, they sat on Michael’s studio floor, envisioning the book they would create, a testament to their shared experiences and memories.

Years passed by, and tragically, Michael passed away in 2019. However, in 2023, Barbara Wolf, his widow, breathed new life into their project, bringing Michael back into our midst. Now, in 2024, a decade after Arpaïs Du Bois’ Hong Kong journey and five years after Wolf’s passing, this book stands as a collection of emotions—a tribute to their shared journey.

Join us on Saturday, May 4th, where Arpaïs Du Bois will be signing copies of the book. We are looking forward to welcoming you at gallery.