Fog & Mist Residency: Bridging Hong Kong Artists With North American Cultures

In a pioneering collaboration, Para Site, Fogo Island Arts (FIA), and the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto (MOCA) have unveiled the Fog & Mist Residency. This innovative program is designed to foster cross-cultural exchanges by connecting emerging artists from Hong Kong with counterparts in North America. The residency marks a significant step towards promoting international artistic dialogue and collaboration.

The inaugural residency has been awarded to Wong Winsome Dumalagan, a promising artist based in Hong Kong. Thanks to the generous support of Eleanor & Francis Shen, Dumalagan will spend three months on Fogo Island, Newfoundland, Canada. This period will allow her to develop her project, engage in research, and interact with the local communities. Furthermore, MOCA Toronto will play a crucial role in bringing Dumalagan's project to fruition, with plans for a live or public program set for 2024.

Established in 1996, Para Site stands as Hong Kong's premier contemporary art center and one of Asia's oldest independent art institutions. It is renowned for producing exhibitions and educational projects that encourage a critical understanding of both local and international art scenes. On the other hand, Fogo Island Arts, initiated in 2008 as part of Shorefast's efforts, offers a unique residency program aimed at artists, curators, and writers. It provides a conducive environment for creative thinking and connection on Fogo Island while addressing themes such as sustainability, ecology, economy, and belonging.

MOCA Toronto is dedicated to showcasing rotating exhibitions that highlight twenty-first-century artistic production. The museum is committed to fostering equity, inclusion, and active community participation.

The collaboration between Para Site, Fogo Island Arts, and MOCA Toronto aims to enhance connections across Hong Kong, Fogo Island, and Canada. By promoting artist mobility and facilitating cross-cultural dialogues, the partnership seeks to encourage collaboration beyond geographical borders. The Fog & Mist Residency serves as a platform for artists whose work resonates with the vibrant discourses and practices relevant to Hong Kong.

This pilot project reflects the collective commitment of the three organizations to nurturing creativity, diversity, and dialogue within the contemporary art world. By forging new connections and opportunities for enduring collaborations among artists and institutions, the initiative promises to make a lasting impact on the global art community.