Slow Burn: Ethiopian-American Awol Erizku Hong Kong-Inspired Neon Art
Ben Brown Fine Arts , Pedder Building 
Why We Recommend it
In his first solo show in Asia, Erizku showcases his distinctive iconography, creating Hong Kong-inspired neon signage addressing wider issues of race, identity, politics and cultural history.
Description
Throughout his career, Awol Erizku (b. 1988) has created a unique visual language and distinctive iconography that addresses issues of race, identity, politics and cultural history, while drawing from myriad references ranging from urban culture to advertising to the art historical canon.
Recently, Erizku has been inspired by the visual impact and cultural history of Hong Kong during his visits to Asia, which have been equal parts cultural exchange and artistic interaction with local craftsmen.
Powerful, culturally symbolic imagery that recur in Erizku’s oeuvre, include the Black Panther, the bust of Nefertiti, and Erizku’s iconic hand and rose are combined with potent phrases in Chinese characters such as ‘Black Panther’, ‘Black Power’ and ‘Black Love’, respectively.
Details
When: 18 May 2018 - 21 Jul 2018 Where: Ben Brown Fine Arts – 301 Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street – Pedder Building
