Contemporary by Angela Li is proud to present solo exhibition of Hong Kong artist Chan King Long, Ken “The Embrace of Oxidation,” showcasing his latest body of works created over the past year. In this exhibition, Chan offers a nuanced exploration of objects imbued with history and narratives of the past, examining them as markers of existence that celebrate the splendour of life. His oil paintings draw from personal experiences, transforming into unique entities that transcend their decaying subjects, infusing new life and meaning into the stories they tell.

Everything ages. Oxidation, a natural chemical process involving the reaction of substances with oxygen over time, serves as a metaphorical anchor for the exhibition. This inevitable phenomenon of decay, paradoxically, becomes a symbol of endurance and timelessness. Chan’s works reveal this interplay between transience and eternity, inviting viewers to reflect on the traces time leaves behind. Depicted in the work “Rust in the pond”, the lotus flowers— once vibrant in full bloom and now weathered by time, poignantly parallel human experience. They bear the trails of growth and memory, embracing the beauty of life’s journey and reminding us that we are the composers of our own ode to existence. The candles in “Candela”, despite their impermanence, radiate optimism, suggesting fresh possibilities and new beginnings. The composition evokes the intimacy of gatherings, infusing the atmosphere with a comforting warmth. Chan's connection to his creation is vividly expressed through high-contrast colours that capture the intensity of life in both beings and objects.

Chan believes that the essence of art, particularly in his practice of oil painting, resides in the creative process and moments of maturation. Oil paint solidifies as it oxidises, mirroring Chan’s inward exploration and reflection-- a process distilled onto his canvases. The vigorous layering of texture in his paintings enhances their depth, imbuing them with life beyond their aesthetic appearances. Each painting tells stories of enduring tales and cherished objects, encouraging viewers to uncover their own narratives, growth, and the different meanings that lie within.