Adeline Ooi, New Horizons Ahead!How a girl from the boondocks became Art Basel’s new Director Asia

A heavy weight rests on the shoulders of Adeline Ooi, though you would not know it from her exuberant disposition. She was officially appointed as Art Basel’s new Director Asia at the end of last year, and has been leading her team in preparation for the

arrival of Hong Kong’s most important art fair. No pressure for her, of course, as the city gears itself up to welcome some of the most esteemed art industry figures from all over the world.

Yet despite the gravity of what she does, Ooi is not someone who puts on airs. Rather, she is affable and incredibly down-to-earth with an upbringing that is far from rarefied. “I came from the boondocks of Malaysia,” she laughs, “so there were no galleries to visit!” Instead, exposure to art in her younger years came from art history books. And her earliest memories of the subject came in an unassuming copy of Reader’s Digest, where she stumbled across a picture of Van Gogh’s The Starry Night.

No one, not least her mother, would have envisioned her to take the position she has today. Instead, under the expectation of a traditional Chinese family, she was expected to become a teacher, accountant or lawyer. “My mother nearly disowned me when she found out I enrolled in art school!” she says. “But I am very fortunate that after a couple of years she realized I am quite serious and she has given me her blessings ever since.”

Knowing in her adolescent years that she belonged to the art world but without a clue what that would entail, Ooi would later study at London’s Central Saint Martins. The city provided her with a creative arena to flourish. “The great thing about London was the museums, the shows... Art was basically everywhere, and it was a great hub to be able to connect to Paris and to different parts of Europe as well.”

Ooi is exhilarated of course by the challenge that lays ahead. “The first time I heard about Art Basel was through a friend who was working at the organization many years ago,” she recounts. “And the very first Art Basel show I attended was in 2006 in Basel. I was completely blown away.” She would later work as programme director and curator for Valentine Willie Fine Art gallery in Kuala Lumpur and several other stints, before eventually joining the Art Basel team as part of their VIP relations team. Nowadays, Ooi is spending her days adjusting her compass to

the full scope of her responsibilities. Her schedule is so packed that she has been traveling non-stop for a month. “Being in the position of Director Asia, you are really right in the thick of it. Now I have a much deeper understanding of the mechanics that make the event. It has been a huge learning curve but I am really enjoying myself.”

And she is also more than happy to enjoy the lifestyle that is offered here in Hong Kong. “Although I come from Malaysia, Hong Kong is not so alien to me. In fact, I have known the city for quite some time. The great challenge is that it is a megalopolis and the energy of Hong Kong has always been exciting. You always meet interesting people, great conversations, great food. It is really like coming to say hi to an old friend.” Such is her close relationship with the city that since the inception of ART HK in 2008, she has never

missed a show.

As to what Ooi hopes to achieve in the future for the show, she honestly confesses that her manic schedule has not allowed her to divine too far into the future. After all, she has been living out of a suitcase for over a month. “The vision is to keep [Art Basel] moving forward and making sure that Hong Kong is the best that it can be. And I hope that we can continue to show the best of Asia in Hong Kong.”

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“I came from the boondocks of Malaysia, so there were no galleries to visit!”

MEMORY LANE

36 HOuRs

Our stay-cation guide to wonderful Wan Chai

INsIGHT &BARIsTA BLuEs

Hong Kong’s satellite fair makes daring debut

sIGHTs &sCENEs

Snaps of a hodgepodge neighbourhood

Rugby’s steel-willed Rowan Varty takes aim

THEBusYBOdY

Three nuggets of wisdom from the art fair world

GuEsTCOLuMN

Why you should support alternative bookstores

OpINION & BusINEss BRIEFs

You too can train a racehorse winner

HOw TO &ROuNdTABLE

HABITs & LOYALTY CARd

DJ Drafus Chow gets cozy in Happy Valley

Morning routines of our Wan Chai residents

P.2 P.3 P.4 P.6 P.7 P.8 P.9 P.10 P.11

HOME swEETHOME

EdITOR: Daniel Kong pHOTOGRApHER: Kenneth Wu suB-EdITOR: Karen Lam ILLusTRATOR: Cyma Yuan CONTRIBu TORs: Christina Yuen Zi Chung, Gaudenz Probst, Natasha Kaye Whiff in

Issue 2sPrIng 2015

the classified archive | issue 2 | spring 2015

15%DISCOUNT

Morning Routine

senIOr BuYer,KAPOK

stOre MAnAger, MOnOCLe shOP hOng KOng

CurAtOr, VerY hOng KOng

exeCutIVe CreAtIVe DIreCtOr, gAA DesIgn FArM

ChrIs LI CInDY ChAn BILLY KWAngIOVAnnI ALessI AnghInI

what time do you usually wake up on a weekday?8:00AM, so that I have just enough time to have breakfast, get a cup of coffee, shower, tidy up the apartment, and get ready for the day!

would you consider yourself more of a morning lark or a night owl? Kind of both, but maybe more of a morning lark. I think waking up early helps me to feel positive. At night I like to make dinner with my boyfriend, watch Netflix or read a little before I go to bed. The area that I live in doesn’t have a lot going on at night, so I prefer to chill at home and then go to bed at midnight.

what do you like best about the morning?I love the shadows in my apartment when the sun rises. The morning light wakes me up naturally. I also love making breakfast with my boyfriend. We prepare a good meal everyday.

what was your first thought when you woke up today?“Coffee smells good…” Sometimes coffee really motivates me to wake up. And right after I wonder what my boyfriend is making for breakfast.

After waking up, what do you usually do?It depends. Sometimes I take a shower first, sometimes I go straight to making coffee. I like to make scrambled eggs and toast as well, and then I clean my apartment and water my plants.

Is there something particular that you do to help prepare for the day?I drink orange juice and black coffee. Sometimes I do yoga in the morning as well, because I feel much more refreshed after. I especially enjoy hot yoga since sweating makes me feel great. In the summer, I like to go swimming before I start the day.

Breakfast— Asian or western?Western. My boyfriend and I love exploring breakfast dishes! We make mostly American and French style breakfasts. This morning we made kale, mushroom and cream cheese toast. Some of our favourite dishes include frittata and cheese soufflé. We also post recipe ideas on Instagram and hashtag #pscookjournal and #dailyeggintake.

what’s the last thing that you grab before heading out the door?My phone. It goes wherever I go.

what time do you usually wake up on a weekday? I have to be honest and confess that I wake up quite late— usually around 9:00AM. This happens since a good chunk of my work happens at night. I work on a lot of European projects, and the time difference means that I work quite late into the evening. I’m definitely a night owl in this stage of my life, although I really do love early mornings. Both early mornings and late nights have something magical in common. No one disturbs you, so you can concentrate on what matters most. All of my work comes to life in the early morning and late evening.

what was your first thought when you woke up today?It’s Monday morning right now and, unfortunately, my first thought on Mondays has been the same since moving to Hong Kong a year ago: “Oh my gosh, I have so many things to do this week… This city is killing me!”

After waking up, what do you usually do?I put on some good music, have a hot shower, and get ready to rock the day. When I’m in a really good mood and don’t have so many things on my mind, I go for a morning run or swim. This usually makes me realise that all is well in the world. My other morning ritual is to prepare two apples everyday. I eat them for my short breaks in the morning and afternoon.

Is there something particular that you do to help prepare you for the day?Making a glass of warm lemon water is definitely a ritual now. The beverage makes me feel great and prepares my body for the day. Then there’s my beloved single espresso. You know that for us Italians, our brains only start working after our first espresso of the day!

Breakfast— Asian or western?Western. My breakfast is simple: espresso, some cereal and freshly squeezed juice. Then I’m ready to go.

what’s the last thing that you grab before heading out the door?I always forget things and leave them at home. Now I just leave the essentials at my studio so that I don’t forget!

what time do you usually wake up on a weekday? I would say around 8:30AM? My schedule depends on work, so if I have to run some errands for the shop before it opens, I set my alarm clock to ring much earlier.

would you consider yourself more of a morning lark or a night owl?Absolutely a night owl.

what do you like best about the night?Nights are quieter, and in the relaxed atmosphere I perform much better. I feel more active, creative, and focused. On weeknights, I usually spend a couple hours at the gym doing yoga or going to dinner with friends after work. Once I get home after, I read, write, or watch a movie or two. I used to stay up a lot later when I was younger, until 2:00AM or 3:00AM. Nowadays I can’t handle a working day without enough sleep.

what was your first thought when you woke up today? “The weather is amazing today!” I never shut the curtain in my bedroom when I sleep because my window faces the sea. This way the first thing I wake up to every morning is the beautiful sunshine and trees. This makes me very happy.

After waking up, what do you usually do?I stay in bed for five to ten minutes. I either just laze in bed and empty my mind or I check my work emails. I don’t want to miss any important messages that come in from the Monocle headquarters in London.

Is there something particular that you do to help you prepare for the day? I love to make hot lemon honey water in the morning. Otherwise a cup of tea is just as good to wake me up!

Breakfast— Asian or western?A mix of both. I’ve been fasting recently and my breakfast has been replaced by a healthy fruit drink from Japan. However a simple breakfast will normally do. Eggs and toast. Nothing fancy.

what’s the last thing that you grab before heading out the door?My headphones. It’s a long commute to work as I live on a small island, and a few good tunes keep me entertained along the way.

what time do you usually wake up on a weekday? I usually wake up between 8:00AM and 9:00AM, depending on what time I sleep the night before. I’m the kind of person who needs to sleep eight hours a day, and will naturally wake without an alarm. I can’t bear to sleep more than that! I feel like I’m wasting time lying in bed and not doing anything.

Morning lark or night owl?Unfortunately, I’m a night owl who wants to become a morning lark! A morning lark’s lifestyle seems healthier. I do like waking up super early and exercising before work. I feel great after, but I can only achieve that feat occasionally.

what do you enjoy most about the night? I really enjoy walking by myself at night and exploring Hong Kong’s streets and alleyways. I love watching people. Some people pack up their stalls at the night market before going home, other night owls eat at local restaurants and some, like wholesale fruit sellers in Yau Ma Tei, ship boxes of fruit all over the world. I also check out small pocket parks like the one on Star Street in Wan Chai. The nights in Hong Kong are simply amazing.

After waking up, what do you usually do? I pick up my phone and check the weather since it tends to influence my mood for the rest of the day. After that, I check my e-mails. The first email that I read is called “Daily Hope by Rick Warren”, which gives me some food for thought.

Is there something that you do to help prepare you for the day? I have daily reflections and meditate on bible quotes to prepare for the day ahead. This activity helps to set my agendas and priorities straight. Apart from that, a cup of coffee as breakfast is ideal, since I tend to focus better with an empty stomach.

what’s the last thing that you grab before heading out the door?Usually my keys, which has a mini Octopus card attached to the key ring. This means that I can go anywhere and everywhere, and I won’t have to bother anyone coming home from a late night of nocturnal wandering!

They say clothes maketh the man, but we say that habits do.Four Wan Chai creatives share their daily morning rituals, which allow them to tackle the day ahead.

HABITs

All submissions should be made to marketingmanager@pressroomgroup.com

What’s happening in your neck of the woods? Tell us about your personal story.

Send us a note about a new business that needs some love. Or even share a life conundrum that our ever-so-witty Barista Brad can help you solve!

LOYALTY CARd

FeAtureD stOrIes WILL Be reWArDeD WIth the CLAssIFIeD LOYALtY CArD WIth ACALLIng ALL neIghBOurhOOD resIDents!

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I came to Hong Kong as a Web Designer in 1997 from New York. The move happened during the whole

internet boom-and-bust era. At that time, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to stay in this city permanently, but I just felt there was so much opportunity that I have been here ever since. Along the way, I started DJing. I don’t do it full-time, because I never want to get sick of my own music.

My vinyl record collection means a lot to me. I probably have at least 5,000 records, though I have never counted them all up to be honest. Most of them came during the time when I was DJing in 1998. The collection began when I was just ten years old, but I really started collecting them when I was fourteen years old onwards.

I try to buy music that I would normally listen to, such as soul, house and jazz music. I’m lucky that a lot of that kind of music doesn’t age. Nowadays, if I buy a record like vinyl, it has to be old, rare or just packaged very well.

One of the most memorable pieces in my home are two drawings by John Lennon. My mother’s family friend was actually friends with Yoko Ono, who actually gave them to her. Mum’s friend didn’t appreciate them, so she later gave them to my mother, who later gave them to me. I didn’t get to meet John or Yoko, unfortunately, though that would have been something!

Another cool piece in my house is an old portable sound burger. The machine

was our version of a walkman back in the day but for vinyl records. I used to carry it around with headphones plugged in, along with a box of records as well. Carrying all of this everywhere was really a chore, but I need my music with me. The machine is quite a novel relic. You can get new ones now at HMV, but they don’t look as nice, obviously.

I got married last year with my wonderful wife, and we moved to this area about two or three years ago. I was in an apartment in Tai Hang before for about eight years. We moved to Happy Valley because we thought this place was a bit more grown-up and suitable for married life. What I like about our home is that we’re on top of a hill, so I feel isolated even within a secluded neighbourhood like Happy Valley.

My definition of a home is someplace where you have to feel comfortable in. For me, it ’s the feeling that you don’t want to leave it. I really learnt from my wife about coziness. I’m more minimal, but as I get older I realize that maybe a bit of coziness is actually better.

We’re planning on painting one of the walls a burnt orange, but if the decision were up to me I would keep it white. I’m more modern and my wife is more rustic, so we have to find that middle ground. It’s that balance of philosophy when you’re married.

Ex-New Yorker cum Happy Valley resident drafus Chow opens up about his vinyl record indulgence, and why the art of coziness is oh-so-important in decorating a house.

HOME swEET HOME DJ Drafus Chow

Chow sits on a corner couch right next to his favourite music memorabilia and record collection.

Small adornments and trinkets, courtesy of Chow’s wife, add a touch of coziness.

An old portable sound burger that Chow used to carry around.

A well-treasured drawing by John Lennon sits on the walls of Chow’s living room.

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the CLAssIFIeD ArChIVe | Issue 2 | sPrIng 2015

Built in 1863, Pak Tai Temple is nestled away in a quiet tree-lined corner of Wan Chai. Worshippers and tourists alike come to pay homage to traditional Buddhist gods.

Feng shui fanatics will find themselves at home in the Wan Chai market, where stalls that sell trinkets, baubles and Buddha statues are part and parcel of this bustling scene.

Previously housing the Woo Cheong Pawn Shop, this Wan Chai signature is now home to well-known restaurant & ‘Botanicals’ bar, The Pawn, re-opened in collaboration with British celebrity chef, Tom Aikens in November last year.

The historic Blue House on Stone Nullah Lane is a four-storey building, famed for its unique features as a traditional Tong Lau building.

Lee Kung Man Knitting Factory gets to the basics, with a store that offers traditional undergarments, t-shirts and cardigans. A heritage brand ripe for hipster revival.

This quaint little building houses Hong Kong’s oldest surviving post office building. The branch officially opened for service in 1915.

LOCAtIOn nO. 1

LOCAtIOn nO. 3

LOCAtIOn nO. 5

LOCAtIOn nO. 2

LOCAtIOn nO. 4

LOCAtIOn nO. 6

sIGHTs & sCENEs Wan Chai

4

PAK tAI teMPLe

WAn ChAIMArKet

the PAWn

BLue hOuse

Lee Kung MAnKnIttIng FACtOrY

WAn ChAIPOst OFFICe

Wander along the wondrous streets of Wan Chai,as our photographer rediscovers a bit of this neighbourhood’s old-fashion charm.

A successful wardrobe and a successful art fair have similar objectives, in that ideally they should both be full of beautiful things. But it’s not always

straightforward to adapt one to the other, particularly because, in a 72-hour period so thoroughly packed with

THE MR PORTER GUIDE TO

DRESSING FOR ART BASEL

FOR THE COCKTAIL RECEPTION:

THE OLD MASTER

On the style spectrum, you’re a Rembrandt – things may change, but everyone will always want a piece of

you. Dress the part in a timeless black tuxedo.

FOR CASUAL BROWSING:

THE MINIMALIST

You like concrete, cubes and talk a lot about “space”. Keep it clean with futuristic, pared - back separates

from Issey Miyake.

FOR THE SALON:

THE DADA

You’re the wild card – no one knows whether you’re a guest or an exhibit. Impress the critics with a

deconstructed two-tone suit.

talks, workshops, receptions and exhibitions, there are so many different occasions to dress for. Navigate the various needs of each (and inject a little of artistry into your look) with the following guide to personal composition during Art Basel Hong Kong.

ISSEY MIYAKE

COLLARLESS SHIRT

Go for a collarless shirt for a summery, exotic look.

JUNGHANS MAX

BILL WATCH

Sharp minimal design from the German watchmaker.

ISSEY MIYAKE LINEN-BLEND JACKET

A pleasantly flecked jacket with a simple shawl lapel design.

ANN DEMEULEMEESTER

CROPPED TROUSERS

A relaxed cut for sauntering round the gallery space.

ACNE STUDIOS ISHERWOOD COTTON SHIRT

Choose light chambray for a painterly sense of ease.

O’KEEFFE WINGTIP BROGUES

Affect an eccentric charm with these pebble grained brogues.

THOM BROWNE GREY HERRINGBONE JACKET

One jacket, two greys. Enjoy the chaos.

THOM BROWNE GREY HERRINGBONE TROUSERS

Commit to the two-tone look with matching trousers.

GUCCI SILK BOW TIE

Tuxedos and bow ties are like Gucci and cocktails – made for each other.

CHURCH’S

SHOES

The celebrated Italian shoemaker offers a contemporary twist on the classic Derby.

VALENTINO

SHIRT

The white dress shirt, perfected by Parisian brand Valentino.

SAINT LAURENT

TUXEDO

A modern classic from Mr Hedi Slimane. Future-proof and impeccably sharp.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY MR PORTER, THE MEN’S STYLE DESTINATION SHOP MORE THAN 300 OF THE WORLD’S LEADING DESIGNER BRANDS AT MRPORTER.COM

the classified archive | issue 2 | spring 2015

can always send a horrible wedding gift. Maybe present them with a vacuum or a year’s subscription to Good Housekeeping Magazine. I doubt she will take the hint but social protocol dictates that she will have to thank you either way.

More broadly speaking, what attracts one person to another is about as intuitive as quantum physics, which is to say I don’t have a clue. What I do know, however, is that staring at social media the way a moth looks at a lamp won’t help you find the one. Go out there and meet people! Who knows, you might even meet Mr. Right whilst buying your next pot.

Love Always,

You have lived in Hong Kong for six years and witnessed the evolution of art in the city. Can you tell us what has changed in the past few years?

There has been an incredible amount of growth. Having been a part of ART HK and seeing the industry grow, I feel very honoured to have been a part of the city’s starting art fair. ART HK has played a major role in the city as an arts hub since its birth in 2007, and people picked up on the fact that there was a lot happening here. It was not just people coming from Asia and gathering. There were also international galleries like the Gagosian Gallery and White Cube who wanted to be part of what was happening. Through the fair, they built up a permanent and long-term presence in this region of the world.

On top of that, you have governmental and non-profit initiatives like West Kowloon Cultural District, Asia Society and Spring Workshop who have also risen to prominence. Their presence is also needed because they provide the kind of context the art fair and gallery business need in order to really make the whole movement sustainable.

working previously for the Gagosian Gallery, ART HK and Art Basel, how have these experiences prepared you to take on the daunting task ahead?

Where to begin? Working in a gallery has served me well. I know what it is like to be on the other side, since now our clients are galleries. I understand what their pressures are like, since it is an incredibly difficult business. Working at ART HK has also taught me so much. Magnus Renfrew [previous fair director of ART HK] has been an incredible teacher. I am grateful to him for all his advice. I was not part of the beginning of ART HK, so I can only imagine now what it must have felt like to debut when there was not a preceding fair to build on. That said, now that Hong Kong is already an arts hub, my job of starting Art Central is now considerably easier!

Hong Kong’s art scene is quite well developed now. How does Art Central complement the city’s offerings?

When you look at world centres like London and Paris that have major art fairs, they all also have a range of satellite fairs. It is quite common to have multiple events happening during an art week. So what we are doing in Hong Kong bringing this satellite fair to the city is elevating art week to international standards. In that sense, we are complementing what is happening in Art Basel.

There are also a few points of difference. The first is our focus on ink art, with the work of twenty different ink artists on display. The second is that we are doing VIP tours with Tiffany Beres

who is a curator and ink specialist from Beijing and also running a public talk through The Asia Society.

what has so far been the biggest challenge in establishing Art Central?

The first challenge was probably the biggest one, which was finding an appropriate venue. In Hong Kong, as we all know, space is a premium. But we have found space in the Central Harbourfront, which is right in the heart of the city. We are excited to be able to put a 10,000 square metre tent in the middle of Hong Kong. The location had to be literally dragged out of the harbour! After that, the rest of challenges like setting up the event is hard work, but we can make it happen.

If all goes well, where do you hope to see Art Central in the next five years?

We will grow with the growth of Hong Kong’s art scene. And as the city becomes more international, we will be able to bring more and more high quality art. We are not looking to spread this all around the world. This is about Hong Kong, for Hong Kong and we are focused on being present here.

INsIGHT

BARIsTA BLuEs

Eve Share Banghart, Co-Director of Art Central

Social Problems

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Along with partner-in-crime Maree Di Pasquale, Eve Share Banghart is leading Hong Kong’s first ever satellite fair, Art Central. The event’s Co-Director shares her insights into the prominent rise of art in the city and what visitors can expect when the doors open.

When May Fung witnessed her beloved neighbourhood bookstore close down back in 2008, she took a huge gamble. Despite her hectic schedule as an artist, arts

educator and administrator, she bought the failing business’s remaining stock, and set up the non-profit art space and bookstore, Arts & Culture Outreach (ACO).

For Fung, the promotion of alternative bookstores in Hong Kong is a particularly important mission. Through ACO, she hopes to promote the virtues of the printed word on art, music and literature to the Hong Kong community. “In Hong Kong, reading culture has been heavily affected by the development of technology,” Fung asserts, “and when a smart phone provides more than enough content to occupy people’s attention, what is the meaning of reading a book in today’s world?”

The question she poses is particularly pertinent, as the publishing industry is facing profound changes. In particular, the rising influence of electronic media has resulted in younger generations who are no longer experiencing the analogue sensation of the printed word. “How do we get young people to return to reading a physical book and enjoy that feeling?” Fung asks. These are the questions that she has been grappling with since the establishment of ACO.

Even more challenging for her business is how to bring a wider readership to the type of books that Fung believes are important to read. “We want books that are not available in mainstream bookstores, books that are mainly about the humanities such art, culture, psychology, and philosophy. These are the books that enrich our inner lives.” In doing so, she encourages all communities to engage with quality ideas and to be able to think critically.

OpINION Why You Should Support Alternative Bookstores

CentralBusINEss BRIEFs

Not being swayed by commercial concerns or popular trends, alternative bookstores are an important channel for values and habits that Fung believes are now more necessary than ever. This is especially so in a city such as Hong Kong where priorities often veer towards the lucrative, and technology facilitates a lifestyle of unhealthy convenience and immediacy. Alternative bookstores such as ACO promote ideals that go beyond the dollar sign, and gives space for books, people, and ideas that seek to benefit our minds and souls instead.

Of course, Fung is no stranger to social resistance. Her experience as an arts educator in both local high schools and universities has shown her exactly how difficult it is for youngsters in the city to sit down with a book and read. However Fung tackles this challenge by creating new reading experiences, hoping that this novel approach will draw out a love of reading.

“We have a program called ‘Reading/Creation Project’, which invites artists, dancers, musicians or other creatives to select a book and work together with participants to study the book or create something together,” she explains. “If you are able to expand the experience beyond reading alone and respond to the book in a tangible way, you can increase desire and interest.”

Despite the many challenges ahead of her, Fung’s passion for the cause is fueled by an intangible feeling that she has always associated with books. “It is that feeling you get when you pick up a book and it strikes a chord in you: that ability for a book to take you to another world is irreplaceable.” Alternative bookstores allow you to reach those places. We should encourage all communities to engage with them. “Reading culture really depends on how it is developed and handled. We shouldn’t throw in the towel.”

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dear Barista Brad,

I am a young, confident, attractive woman who has become officially disheartened. I heard that an old roommate of mine has gotten engaged on Facebook! Although I congratulate her for tying the knot, I’m completely shocked. How did she manage to snag this man?

We used to live together and she had the most horrendous habits. For example, she lets food grow mouldy in the open air for months at a time, she neglects to use the vacuum cleaner at all, and she has a knack of Skyping in the wee hours of the morning when I need to sleep. Please console me!

- Confused

dear Confused,

As my grandmother used to say: “every pot has a lid.” So unless you are a frying pan don’t be discouraged; there is a man out there who will be the lid to your pot. So your friend has found a man and you have not. I don’t see why you are upset. He might be just as vacuum-averse as she is.

For all you know, he might be the Cookie Monster’s cousin who loves her habit of spreading stale month-old food around, as if it were some divine offering. Besides, you have no way of knowing if he is “the one”.

If, however, you want to take more immediate action, then you

60The percentage of galleries hailing

from the Asia Pacific

10,000The square metre coverage that

Art Central’s tent will cover

75The number of galleries

from abroad

20The number of ink artists

on display

17The number of galleries

from Hong Kong

KEY NuMBERs

MORE Is MORE pEdAL TO THE METAL

dREss TO THE NINEs

THE sOCIAL NETwORK

OFF TO A GOOd sTART

wINdOw sHOppER

Since its inception in 2010, the now bigger and better Edouard Malingue Gallery has re-launched earlier this year. From an initial 750 square feet, the gallery now occupies an entire floor. The upgraded space offers a stimulating gallery experience through the collaborative works of local and global artists. Coinciding with this month’s Art Basel, the gallery will have its international debut with a special, inaugural solo artist leading the charge for more great things later on this year.

6/F, 33 Des Voeux Road Central+852 2810 0317 www.edouardmalingue.com

signature Communications has spearheaded many a lavish party and strategic ad campaign for the likes of Lane Crawford, Anya Hindmarch, Gagosian Gallery and a host of other blue blood clientele. At the helm of the boutique public relations firm is founder and director Nancy Fung, a visionary woman about town with an address book for days. This March, the company will hold bespoke arts festivities for their clients (Shanghai Tang amongst them), with high society and celebrity turnout expected at its peak.

2701 Wyndham Place, 40-44 Wyndham Street +852 2525 1098www.signature.hk

Boutique indoor cycling studio XYZ is the answer to those who reluctantly join Pure Fitness or California Fitness solely for the spinning while forgoing everything else. Founder Belinda Koo steps up the ultimate cycling experience with a fusion of high intensity workout, ride customisation and an electrifying indoor ambience conducive to some serious sweating. The details speak for itself: colour-changing LED spotlights create an experiential space coupled with a powerful sound system that rivals those of dance clubs.

2/F, New World Tower II, 18 Queen’s Road Central +852 2865 0999 www.youarexyz.com

The wedding suite’s quaint upstairs atelier is lined wall to wall with wedding and couture gowns customised to perfection for clients, such as celebrities and socialites, of entrepre-neur and designer Dora Chu. A graduate of Central Saint Martins, Chu always emphasises femininity and glamour in each creation. Her impeccable approach to garment construction filters down to the very last stitch. As a nice complement, men’s bespoke tailoring is also on offer for a client’s better half.

1/F, 61 Wellington Street +852 2770 0068Facebook: The Wedding Suite HK

Hong Kong’s ever-growing startup community has inspired Yana Robbins to create Jumpstart Magazine, a publication about startups for startups. Each issue offers practical guidance on navigating the bumpy road of entrepreneurialism. Topics include tips on how to crowdfund successfully, marketing and design for millenials, amongst other topics. Free print copies can be found around the city at coworking spaces, chambers of commerce, universities, as well as digitally on their website.

9/F, 33 Des Voeux Road Central +852 3952 7221 www.jumpstartmag.com

Dynamic Dutch duo Sjoerd Hoekstra and Esther van Wijck founded retail design firm Three dogs almost twenty years ago with the hopes of changing the visual merchandising landscape one storefront at a time. The bulk of their work can be seen all over Hong Kong, some in the form of familiar brands like Smartone Vodafone, Caffè Habitū and others. The firm’s specialties also include brand and retail identity, both of which many Mainland Chinese companies have harnessed in launching their businesses successfully.

U/G, 24 Caine Road +852 2818 5644 www.threedogs.com

No neighbourhood spells big business quite like Central, yet the area thrives in other aspects such as creativity, design and innovation. Here are some of the area’s most vibrant businesses.

the classified archive | issue 2 | spring 2015

Super Smooth

dEVIsE A THOROuGH TRAINING pROGRAM

All horses go through a very individualised daily regimen of training, each one tailored to their race profile. A short-distance sprinting horse will exercise differently from a long-distance one. One popular exercise involves the equine pool, where horses are lead around the facility and undergo resistance training in the water. “Swimming allows the horses to exercise whilst putting no pressure on their joints,” Yip says. “This is especially helpful for those that may have minor leg or tendon injuries.”

2.

smoothies are a delicious treat, jam-packed with flavour and incredibly healthy. Four of Happy Valley’s smoothest operators share their thoughts on this growing food craze.

pICK THE RIGHT HORsE THROuGH A THOROuGH sELECTION pROCEss

Yip finds his equine candidates from a variety of sources, including horse auctions, dealers and agents he has worked with over many years, as well as trial race winners. He also examines each horse’s pedigree. “In my opinion, a mare’s bloodline is more important than a stallion, as the foal stays with the mother from birth until they are half a year old.” Yip also looks at physical characteristics, such as their gait and the conformation of their legs for signs of success.

ENsuRE HORsEs ARE wELL-EquIppEd

Just as important as the horses are the accessories and equipment they need to perform at their best. Yip uses a large variety of devices to help his horses stay focused. One example are blinkers, which allow horses to stay focused on what is ahead of them. Another are horseshoes, of which there are some nine or so choices that the stables let you choose from. Earplugs are also very much an essential, as some horses are very sensitive to noises and may start sweating profusely if they become nervous.

EsTABLIsH A pERsONAL CONNECTION OF CARE ANd TRusT

Horses are undeniably under a lot of pressure to perform well. Ensuring they feel taken care of is of the utmost importance. For food, Yip swears by a nourishing feed from the United States called Eclipse, which he also customises with his own special mix. “I prefer to work directly with horses firsthand rather than hire a horse dietician,” he notes. Keeping them relaxed on race days is also important. Yip has all his stables play calming music to keep his horses unflustered and happy.

1.

3. 4.

Train a Professional Race Horse

NAME: LIZ

OCCUPATION: sALes PrOFessIOnAL

“When I’m out and about I’m attracted to menus that have healthy options: not just the usual coffee or juices, so smoothies make a great choice. I also make them at home as well. My go-to recipe mixes frozen spinach or kale with a little bit of fruit like apple, pear, or frozen banana. I then add some coconut water and chia seeds for a boost of nutrition.”

NAME: ADAM

OCCUPATION: theAtre enthusIAst

“Smoothies are tasty and it feels like you’re getting something healthy. I drank a bit of alcohol over the weekend so it’s a great hangover pick-me-up, actually! I like the lighter options that taste more natural and aren’t so thick and sweet. I’ve tried some more adventurous combinations that actually taste surprisingly good together.”

NAME: BrAnDY

OCCUPATION: teACher

“I don’t always order smoothies because I think that they will fill me up before my meal. But they are so tasty and healthy that I can’t help but order them sometimes! Especially on days when I feel a little down and need a boost of nutrition, I’ll go for a green smoothie. I feel really good after I’ve had a glass, so for me it is a treat both inside and out.”

NAME: rOger

OCCUPATION: ACCOuntAnt

“Sometimes I’ll get a smoothie because everyone else is getting one. I always like fresh fruit. So, if it comes in a drink form— all the better! Mixed berries and almond milk are a combination that I enjoy. That said, I only like to have smoothies once in a while for a nutritional boost. I’m quite wary of the sugar content in some of the blends.”

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HOw TO

ROuNdTABLE

This issue welcomes Natasha Kaye Whiffin, Development Coordinator for Asia Art Archive, as our guest columnist. Born and raised in Hong Kong as a third culture child, Whiffin studied photography at London College of Communications before charting the changing art ecosystem in Asia from 2009 onwards. Here she pens her hard-earned observations with Hong Kong’s ever-evolving art fair scene.

Five years ago, I attempted to convince The Art Newspaper (which I was interning with in London at the time) to send me to ART HK to do, well, ‘anything’ I begged them. The art fair was in its fourth

year, and the narrative of how the fair had helped shape the city into one of the art world capitals was saturating the media. The lure to venture out was partly a need to return to my birthplace, but mostly a distinctive and almost gravitational pull to a city that was taking center stage in the disarming of the art world’s Western-centric base.

Failing to persuade my team, I flew myself out regardless. Upon arriving at the fair I spotted a press accreditation desk. “Hello,” I said. “I’m Natasha Whiffin from The Art Newspaper in London... oh you don’t have a pass for me? There must have been a mix up.” Two seconds later, I obtained a press pass. “That was easy,” I thought to myself.

I proceeded to rock around the fair and pounded the pavement for five days, live tweeting various musings and taking photos of gallerists, artists and collectors. And you know what? It turns out that that is a pretty good way to introduce yourself to just about anyone. One moment you are on the outside looking in, and the next you are having a chat with White Cube gallery owner and art world heavyweight Jay Jopling. The first lesson I learnt: in Hong Kong, the art world is accessible.

Skip to 2012 during a hot and sticky day in May, and I found myself hauling bricks through the loading bay of the Hong Kong Convention Centre. This time I came in not as press, but as an exhibitor. I was working for Robin Peckham, now editor-in-chief of The Art Newspaper Hong Kong edition (ironic, I know!), who at the time had just opened a gallery in the city called Saamlung Gallery. We were the youngest exhibitors on the block.

The bricks we were carrying formed the base of Hong Kong artist Nadim Abbas’ new work, featuring a fridge installed with homemade ‘moon milk’. Inedible, but delectable looking nonetheless, the piece sought to intrigue. And so it did. Not only was the artwork well-received, but also purchased by prominent Hong Kong art collector William Lim. The second lesson I learnt: in Hong Kong, the art world is always hungry for good talent.

This year, I return to the newly named Art Basel in my capacity with Asia Art Archive, where for its third year the organisation will be welcoming art world influencers to come to the booth and host ‘meetings without walls’ to develop ongoing projects, catalyse new ones, or simply relish in the opportunity to make new connections.

Five years on, the fair has become an open platform, a hybrid marketplace where you can invest not only in artworks, but in cultural production itself. It is amazing how quickly Hong Kong’s art fair has matured in a short few years. The third and final lesson I learnt: in Hong Kong, the art world is what you are willing to make of it.

GuEsT COLuMN Three Lessons From My Five-Year Art Fair Affair

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“If you would like to opt out from receiving circular mail, please place a “no circular mail ” sticker on the letter box. The stickers are freely available at all post off ices, public enquiry service centres of district off ices as well as estate management off ices of public housing estates and selected private residential developments.

However, circular mail posted by the government and related organisations, legislative councillors, district councillors, election candidates and charitable bodies eligible for tax relief under section 88 of the inland revenue ordinance are exempted from this opt-out scheme.”

Ahead of Hong Kong Jockey Club’s BMW Hong Kong Derby,accomplished horse trainer Dennis Yip gives us his take on how to train a sure-fire winner.

the classified archive | issue 2 | spring 2015

Rest assured in comfort and style this evening, knowing that your lovely sojourn will not break the bank. With all of its practical amenities for work and play as well as its sleek design, OZO is your answer. Did we mention its prime location?

22 Hennessy Road | +852 2292 3000 | www.ozohotels.com/wesley-hongkong

when did you first discover your passion for rugby?

My parents used to always take me and my friends to the Rugby Sevens every year. One year, we saw they had Mini rugby on early in the morning with all the little seven to nine year olds playing. And my friends and I thought that was pretty cool. So we begged our mums to let us take part in the programme, and that is where it all began.

How did you decide to become a professional rugby player?

Playing professionally was never really on offer in Hong Kong until recently. I always enjoyed playing, at least semi-professionally, but it was tough keeping it up with school, and then university and later a job. It was only when we won a silver medal in Asia back in 2010 that the Hong Kong government became more inter-ested in rugby. So when it officially became an elite sport, I took the opportunity to become professional.

How are your training programmes engineered?

Our head coach Gareth Baber along with help from Kane Jury and Nathan Stewart manage our workouts. So Kane and Gareth plan our training, and Nathan looks after our gym work. We’re right now working on a thirteen-week training phase building up to Hong Kong Sevens and Tokyo Sevens.

what are goals that your team hopes to achieve in the future?

We hope to win the upcoming Hong Kong Sevens, which is a series qualifier for the Sevens World Series. That’s really the pinnacle of what a Sevens player should aim for. And in November there is an Olympic qualifier, which if we win, will allow us to compete in the Rio Olympics. So there are two big tournaments this year and if we get them, then happy days!

You also work for a law firm called Tanner de witt. How did that happen?

I was there yesterday, actually! The firm is run by a group of guys who really enjoy rugby, so I have gotten to know them over the years when they attended all the matches. I used to work there full time for two to three years, but since becoming full-time with rugby, I now go there once a week. The people there are pretty supportive of what I do. It is pretty much a dream job and helps me to stay in touch with reality during my day off from training.

THE BusYBOdY Rowan Varty, Professional Rugby Player

How do you deal with the pressure of being a public figure of rugby?

I do not really think about it. If you stop and do, it gets quite scary so I try not to. You really realise the pressure when you go to a Mini rugby festival and the kids want to take photos with you. And in my head I ask: “why do you want to take photos with me? I just play rugby.” That’s when you realise how influential you can be because you are playing such a great sport and representing Hong Kong.

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Lala Curio OzO WesleyGallery 27 Tsuchiya Kaban

Early AfternoonEarly Morning Late Afternoon Evening

Start fresh at Gallery 27 by designer Alan Chan, and be stimulated by creative graphic art works by budding Hong Kong, Mainland Chinese and Asian artists. The gallery is open to the public by appointment, so call ahead for your private viewing.

1901 Harcourt House, 39 Gloucester Road +852 2527 8228 | www.gallery27hk.com

This place is quite literally an odd one,a mishmash of artist agency, gallery café and retail shop bundled into one multi faceted space. Odd One Out boasts affordable art prints in its many forms, as well as illustrated greeting cards, cool art magazines and homewares.

14 St. Francis Street | +852 2529 3955 | www.oddoneout.hk

Tsuchiya has a leather bag for every occasion, be it work or holiday, classic or contemporary. With its superior craftsmanship, functional styles and array of colours, you can expect truly one of a kind pieces. Find your signature style here.

6 Sun Street | +852 2745 6821 | www.tsuchiya-kaban.com.hk

For all you urban men looking to cut a dash this weekend, look no further than delstore to start your day. Once you’ve finished looking at their goods on Schooner Street, make sure to hop on over to their second store on Sau Wa Fong to continue browsing.

3 Schooner Street | +852 2528 1770 | www.delstore.com

A day of sauntering through Wan Chai calls for an intermission at Iyara day spa for one of their sumptuous massages. Men accompa-nying their significant others will be pleasantly surprised that they need not wait nearby, as there are spa services catered to them too.

53 Ship Street | +852 2545 8637 | www.iyarabeauty.com

Founder Laura Cheung serves up a retro oriental flair for furniture, lighting and textile décor at Lala Curio. For the aesthetically inept in need of guidance for the home or workplace, you can also count on the store’s staff for a dependable face lift.

32-33 Sau Wa Fong | +852 2528 5007 | www.lalacurio.com

Finish off your Wan Chai weekender with a visit to charming store Igloo, which is akin to a minimalist’s haven. Design aficionados will love the clean lines and functionality of Igloo’s furniture and tableware, which undeniably gives Muji a run for their money.

26 Sau Wa Fong | +852 2520 0580 | www.igloohk.com

Early Morning Late AfternoonEarly Afternoon Evening

Iyara Day Spa IglooOdd One OutDelstore

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

36 HOuRs Wan Chai

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The past few years have seen Wan Chai transformed into a wonderland of interesting stores and cool finds. Here is our weekend guide on what to do for a fun-filled Wan Chai weekender.

A Hong Kong seven’s Typical Training day

9:00

AM

speed Agility sessionThe hour-long training starts with technical and reaction-based activities, all to ensure that players can move quickly and effectively on the field.

Gym session These gym sessions help the players to bulk up, which is especially important early in the programme. There is an emphasis on shorter and sharper activities when tournaments get closer.

Lunchtime Provided by the Hong Kong Sports Institute, the buffet-style lunches are usually healthy and simple. Unfortunatly, they recently took out the ice cream choices!

Team MeetingThe entire team discusses what training needs to be achieved in the next few weeks, and the coaches assesses progress both individually and as a team.

Field skills sessionThe most important part of their train-ing programme, these sessions allow the team to work on their individual skills and team structures. Occasionally, they play with contact, though there is a higher risk of injury.

10:0

0AM

12:0

0pM

1:30

pM3:

00pM

with an intense training regimen six days a week, Hong Kong sevens’ Rowan Vartyis focused on bringing home the bacon.