2026 Issue 01

Engagements

HSUHK – Foundation Gallery launches university collection and Wang Yi solo exhibition

The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong – Foundation Gallery presented the University Collection “Objects of Interest”, alongside contemporary Chinese artist Wang Yi’s solo exhibition “The Stars Are Not Afraid to Appear Like Fireflies” in March 2026. The two exhibitions are staunch examples of HSUHK’s commitment to integrate art into teaching, and nurturing one’s spirit through culture.

The “Objects of Interest” exhibition draws inspiration from the Renaissance-era “cabinet of curiosities”, featuring precious items donated to HSUHK by distinguished individuals across various sectors. It invited students and staff from diverse disciplines to reinterpret these objects through their own perspectives, thereby giving the exhibits new and deeper meanings.

“The Stars Are Not Afraid to Appear Like Fireflies” was co-organised by HSUHK and ArtNext, and curated by Ms Mianco Wong and Ms Xie Xiaomin. The exhibition spotlighted Wang Yi, a leading figure in China’s new generation of abstract artists. Born in Shanghai in 1991, Wang Yi transforms urban structures and social orders into rigorous and rhythmical geometric forms.

Situated on the first floor of the Creative Humanities Hub, the HSUHK – Foundation Gallery is a premier 150-square metre venue defined by its flexible contemporary design. By hosting high-calibre art exhibitions, the Gallery offers visitors an immersive cultural experience while serving as a vital pedagogical bridge for the Master of Arts in Art Business programme. It stands as a dual-purpose space dedicated to both academic excellence and the broader promotion of arts and culture.

HSUHK – Foundation Gallery website

The opening ceremony is officiated by Ms Mianco Wong, Founder of ArtNext and co-curator of the exhibition (left); President Simon Ho; Dr Patrick Poon, Chairman of the Foundation Management Committee; Professor Douglas So, Chairman of the Museum Advisory Committee of HKSAR; Professor Desmond Hui, Chairman of the Working Group on Foundation Gallery Curation, and Ms Xie Xiaomin, co-curator of the exhibition and artist representative.
Select works from the “Objects of Interest” exhibition:
A Chinese tea pot donated by Dr Rose Lee, former Chairman of the Board of Governors of HSUHK.

A 1966 Shanghai-manufactured hand-cranked calculator, complete with its original wooden case.

A collection of matchboxes curated by students as part of the donated collection.
“The Stars Are Not Afraid to Appear Like Fireflies” exhibition by Wang Yi.