President of the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR Government
Since its foundation, the Macao Museum of Art (MAM) under the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR Government has committed to forging cultural exchanges with different regions of the world. Since 2007, MAM has participated in the Venice Biennale representing ‘Macao, China’ and has presented remarkable exhibitions that were highly praised in each edition.
The Venice Biennale is one of the most important art events in Europe with a time-honoured history, attracting millions of visitors with each edition. It is significant to Macao to exhibit works of local artists at such a prominent international art event. From the collection of work proposals to the final display, it not only promotes the development of local contemporary art in Macao but also showcases the outstanding works of Macao artists on an international stage. It certainly enhances exchanges between Macao artists and the global art world. We can also take this opportunity to introduce our city, which has a long-standing cultural history, to the world.
This year, a team comprising a young curator and an artist will represent Macao, China, in Venice with their exhibition titled ‘Above Zobeide’. This edition of the biennale is themed ‘Foreigners Everywhere’, and ‘Above Zobeide’ also explores the idea of foreigners in Macao. The exhibition is curated by independent curator Chang Chan, who is based in Macao and London. The participating artist Wong Weng Cheong was born in Macao in the 1990s. With fictional imagery presenting a world mixed with civilisation and mutation, the exhibition reflects the artist’s own contemplation on the history and culture of Macao, as well as the path of the city’s current and future development. I believe it will leave a deep impression on the audience, and I extend my best wishes for the success of the exhibition.
Leong Wai Man
President of the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR Government