A mighty display

A grand total of 50 lion sculptures were unveiled on July 10, when the “Biennial of Lions” made its Asia debut at MGM Macau. The finished artworks were seen together for the first time at the special event, exhibiting the works by artists from France, China, Macau and Hong Kong.  

 

2014 sees the 10th year of the dynamic fair, this year organized by the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau (IACM), the Macao Museum of Art (MAM), the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, and La Biennale des Lions. 

 

Guests of Honour on the evening included Mr. Arnaud Barthélémy, Consul General of the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau; Dr. Mohamed Attia, Founder and President of the La Biennale des Lions; Mr. Andrew Yuen, Chairman of the Board of Le French May; Ms. Pansy Ho, Co-Chairperson and Executive Director of MGM China Holdings Limited, and Mr. Grant Bowie, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of MGM China Holdings Limited. 

 

“We are honoured to be the exclusive sponsor of the ‘Biennial of the Lions’ for its debut in Asia, and thank  all the organizers for their support in making this exhibition possible,” said Ms Pansy Ho at the opening ceremony. “The lion sculptures are a testimony to boundless creativity, as well as a toast to the Sino-French diplomatic relations. Through the beautiful art pieces, we hope to show our guests the intricate similarities that the Chinese and French cultures share.”

 

One of the local artists involved in the project, Pakeong Fortes Sequeira explains the concept behind his piece: “The French Emperor Napoleon once said about China: ‘Let the lion sleep, for when she wakes, she will shake the world’. This famous quote combines the concept of Lion, China and France, and inspired my imagination and creativity.”

 

On her work, French artist Nathalie Decoster, comments: “‘Human Concept’ demonstrates that humans are always looking for ways to be the best they can. Simultaneously, we all need protection and in this sculpture the lion is protecting humans in a physical and mental way”.

 

Until October 12, the artworks will be displayed at MGM Macau, MGM Art Space, One Central Macau, Macau Tower and MAM. 

 

The “MGM Art Space” invites visitors to explore “MGM • Biennial of the Lions- Beyond the Roar” Exhibition. Divided into five zones, the work behind the Biennial is explained, and the history of the diplomatic relationship between China and France is looked at in greater depth, as are the artists themselves.   

 

At the entrance visitors are greeted by two bronze lion sculptures, the work of Chinese contemporary artist Gao Xiaowu, their sweet expressions a reflection of the loss of faith in contemporary society, according to the artist. 

 

The beginning of the exhibition takes visitors through a brief history of the relationship between the two culturally rich nations, 1964 being the year when France became the first western country to establish diplomatic relations with China.

 

Six art pieces by 19th Century French artist Eugène Delacroix hang on the walls, exemplifying the courage and strength of these noble creatures, whose endless energy he so admired. 

 

In another zone, the MGM film lion takes pride of place telling the story behind this iconic logo. A large oil painting in the style of photorealism is displayed, portraying the behind-the-scenes shooting of Jackie the lion’s roar in 1924, offering a glimpse into the workings of one of the most iconic film studios of all time. 

 

Here visitors also have a rare photo opportunity. Using advanced technology Jackie the Lion is projected with the use of 3D Mapping and guests are encouraged to pose for photos next to the famous big cat.

 

Guests are given the opportunity to express themselves in the fourth zone, where they can make their own virtual lion sculptures, which can be sent to friends on the spot by email. 

 

The final zone is a perfect juxtaposition of art and technology and brings the whole exhibition together, with a cyber-style wall panel on one side and light boxes with images of lion sculptures on the other. An ideal finale to this show celebrating diplomatic relations, art and the future.