WOAW Gallery is pleased to present Muggsy, a solo exhibition by New York artist
Giles Pates. This vibrant and heartfelt collection of works celebrates the unifying
power of local basketball courts around the world, inviting viewers to reconnect
with the communal spirit that often defines these shared spaces. The exhibition
will be on view from 10 January to 8 February 2025 , which also celebrates his
first solo exhibition in Hong Kong.
Muggsy is a celebration of the communal power found in local basketball courts
around the world. The title draws inspiration from Muggsy Bogues, one of the
smallest players to ever grace the NBA, known for his heart, tenacity, and
unshakable spirit - qualities that resonate deeply with the energy of a local court.
At the core of this exhibition is the idea that basketball courts serve as timeless
spaces of connection, transcending language, background, and age. Regardless
of one's history or origin, a local basketball court is a place where strangers can
become friends and individuals can find a lasting sense of community.
The inspiration behind "Muggsy" comes from a personal experience shared by
the artist. During a conversation with his wife and brother-in-law, Giles was
moved by the story of his wife's family, who had recently immigrated from
Karachi, Pakistan, and were searching for a sense of belonging in New York City.
One afternoon, Giles' brother-in-law found himself shooting hoops alone at his
local mosque, when a group of local kids approached him and began playing.
What began as a solitary moment quickly turned into a bond of friendship that
remains strong to this day.
This powerful memory has inspired Giles to create a series of works that invite
viewers into the spirit of their own local courts. Through these paintings, Giles
aims to evoke nostalgia for a time when communal spaces held a deeper
meaning, reminding us of the sense of unity and connection that we experienced
as children in the parks of our hometowns.