Installation Art "Phaeodaria” by Renowned Local Artist Teddy Lo Now On Exhibition

(Hong Kong, 5 July 2010) Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC) is delighted to present "Phaeodaria" as the second project under "Art in the Park” to promote creativity with technology among local community, following the debut of "ADAMAO”, an artwork by the famous Korean artist Ahn Pilyun in March. "Phaeodaria”, an installation art piece comprising light-emitting diode (LED) modules, is the work of Mr Teddy Lo, a local artist who is internationally recognised for pioneering "Tech-Art”. Members of the community are welcome to visit Science Park to gain a fresh perspective on art and technology.

Mr E. Anthony Tan, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTPC, said, "Art, like technology, enriches our lives. At HKSTPC, we are dedicated to creating an environment that is rich in creativity because we firmly believe that a fertile environment leads to a fertile mind. To create this rich atmosphere, we are proud to present 'Art in the Park’, an initiative to install art pieces and organise art related events at Science Park to promote creativity with technology. It is also our wish to enrich the working environment by adding colour and lifestyle elements, and to provide a channel for international exchange of ideas.

"We have been greatly encouraged by the success of our first project 'ADAMAO’, which raised significant interest from the general public and attracted over 20,000 visitors within just one month. 'Phaeodaria' likewise possesses the characteristics of interactivity and creativity, exemplifying the idea of art and technology coming together as one. We hope visitors will find the exhibition inspiring and we will continue to welcome both local and overseas artists under the 'Art in the Park' initiative,” Mr Tan added.
 
"Phaeodaria" is a marine-inspired information-based lighting installation. Featuring a geodesic dome that is 8 metres in diameter, the interior is equipped with motion sensors that are connected to LED lighting, the colours of which can be manipulated by the movement of those inside the dome. Externally, the LEDs respond to telecommunication frequencies that are common in today’s information age, including GSM, SMS and Wi-Fi signals. This installation acts as an energy capsule from which LEDs interact with the wireless technology of Hong Kong, representing the information and energy flowing through the heart of the city.

Also featuring an audio element, a computer programme has been used in which the detection of SMS transmissions will automatically trigger off electronic sounds. Anyone with a mobile phone can send text messages as a means of experiencing this device at work.

Mr Teddy Lo, commenting on his installation art and the "Art in the Park” initiative, said, "I am pleased to be involved in this exhibition because artists from around the world can share creative ideas with the general public. I hope 'Phaeodaria’ will inspire visitors in different ways, enhance recognition and appreciation for installation art, and raise awareness about technology’s potential.”

"Phaeodaria” is a luminescent masterpiece created through the collaboration between HKSTPC, LED lighting design company LEDARTIST and LED screen manufacturer and supplier Lighthouse Technologies. Visitors are welcome to experience this creative lighting display in Science Park. Lights will be on from 12noon-2pm & 6-9pm on weekdays and from 12noon-10pm on Saturdays and Sundays. No admission fee or registration is required.

"ART IN THE PARK"

"Art in the Park" is an initiative launched by Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC) to promote creativity with technology among the local community.

To encourage the general public to unleash their creativity and explore science and technology from brand new angles, HKSTPC initiated “Art in the Park”, inviting local and overseas artists to install art pieces in Hong Kong Science Park and organise art-related events. This initiative not only provides a platform for international exchange of ideas, but also adds vibrancy, colour and style to the working environment of the Park.