Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience as Lawrence Lek takes you on an exhilarating journey through his immersive video game performances at Tai Kwun’s ‘Artists’ Night.’ This event, scheduled for Friday, March 28, from 7 PM to 11 PM, promises to blur the lines between reality and the digital realm, inviting attendees into a carefully crafted world where even self-driving cars ponder their own existence. Lek’s work is a thought-provoking commentary on the myths surrounding technological advancement in our age of artificial intelligence and social transformation.

The ‘Artists’ Night’ is a collaboration with Art Basel Hong Kong and features a lineup of innovative musicians and visual artists. The historic 19th-century prison and police complex, now one of Hong Kong’s premier art hubs, will serve as the backdrop for stunning live performances and captivating installations. Guests will roam through locations like the Laundry Steps, F Hall Studio, JC Contemporary, and the Prison Yard, each offering unique artistic experiences.

At the Laundry Steps, attendees can immerse themselves in Lek’s ‘SimBeijing’ trilogy, which envisions a near-future smart city through three gripping works: Black Cloud (2021), NOX (2023), and Empty Rider (2024). By merging Sino-futurism with dystopian aesthetics and electronic soundscapes, Lek examines the profound impact of artificial intelligence on human identity, emotions, and agency.

Not to be missed, the Prison Yard will unveil a striking public art piece by Alicja Kwade titled Waiting Pavilions. This installation features seven transparent glass brick structures that suggest ghostly prison cells, prompting reflections on time and human history, particularly in light of our shared experiences during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, the F Hall Studio will be a hub of cutting-edge performances where artists explore the relationships between technology, sound, and visual effects. Among the highlights is the creative studio affect lab, presenting “Bleeding into the Metaverse.” This interactive experience invites participants to design their avatars, allowing them to share a live dance with their digital counterparts on screen, fostering a dialogue on the need for inclusive metaverses.

With its innovative soundscapes, the evening will also feature 33EMYBW, a notable artist from the Manchester-based label SVBKVLT. Known for her conceptual take on electronic music, her acclaimed 2019 album ‘Arthropods’ explored themes of animism and the essence of the soul through the lens of invertebrates. A seasoned performer at prestigious festivals like SXSW and CTM, 33EMYBW's set is expected to be a major highlight of the night.

The ‘Artists’ Night’ is part of a larger celebration of art at Tai Kwun, featuring extended hours, a VIP international brunch, and special exhibition tours. Attendees can also explore solo exhibitions dedicated to artists like Hu Xiaoyuan, Alicja Kwade, and Maeve Brennan.

As Hong Kong's art scene continually evolves with a focus on experimental practices, ‘Artists’ Night’ stands as a critical platform to showcase avant-garde artists who are boldly pushing the boundaries of technology, sound, and performance in Asia. Don't miss out on this extraordinary evening where creativity and innovation collide—mark your calendar and prepare to be wowed!