Nov 20

Nov 20 TheW+ Art: Connor Yang at [Mihn] Gallery

It’s no joke- it’s been quite a stressful few weeks in Hong Kong where our studio is based- what with what’s going on in regards to the protests- now in its sixth month. Thankfully, out of nowhere friends of mine contacted me to let me know that a Guanzhou-born Shanghai-based artist by the name of Connor Yang was exhibiting a series of his latest works tonight at the [Mihn] Gallery , a “safe space for emerging artists in Hong Kong”- and one that is super queer as well, if there's anything to go by based on their iconic events, shows, and parties.

[Mihn] Gallery is an artist lead initiative. A night club component, the [Mihn] Club, opened in 2018- with an effort to invite underground talent from around the world. The success of the club supports entrepreneural projects during the week- which includes programming like yoga classes, wine tasting, fashion shows, and other events- like art exhibition.

Connor Yang’s solo show at [Mihn] Gallery is his first ever. Titled “Itch”, the Hong Kong show was a last resort after Yang couldn't find a gallery in Mainland China to host his illustrations, mostly depicting taboo and graphic subject matters in relation to purely male-on-male sex.

According to the Yang's description of the show, the artist states, “I think sex is a very normal thing… Life is from sex, sex is the origin of life. People talk about sex as if it is dirty and it is only discussed under the table. I choose sex as a theme because I want to show people that it can be art, sex is beautiful and powerful.”

On display are various works which include original screen printed pieces in editions of 3, plus digital works in edition of 50 and 100. This show was truly a breath of fresh air and a much needed “release” from the existence of living in a tense-filled city- as it exists now. It’s definitely nice to feel that kind of normalcy- if only for a moment.