Hong Kong Artist in Exile Exhibits in Hungary, Exposing Impact of Communism

Artists participating in the exhibition “As Far, as Exile.” Courtesy of Loretta Lau

The Godot Institute of Contemporary Art in Budapest is currently hosting the exhibition “As Far, as Exile,” featuring works by six Czech artists and Hong Kong’s Loretta Lau; the event highlights the experiences of those forced into exile due to political persecution. Through art, the exhibition explores the oppressive legacy of communism in Czechoslovakia and its parallels with contemporary Hong Kong.

Hungary has recently been negotiating an extradition treaty with China. Lau expressed concern that the treaty could endanger artists and activists seeking refuge in Europe.

“The extradition treaty between Hungary and China will be a nightmare for many Hong Kong and Chinese artists who have been forced into exile in Europe due to political persecution,” she said.

Lau cited the arrest of Chinese artist Gao Zhen, who was detained in China in August. She also criticized the worsening human rights situation in Hong Kong under the National Security Law, citing the recent sentencing of 47 pro-democracy activists to prison terms ranging from 4 to 10 years.

Art as a Lens on Oppression

Lau, a Hong Kong performance artist now living in exile, uses her work to reflect on the human cost of authoritarianism. Her calligraphy piece “Dear Grandma” conveys deeply personal thoughts she had long hesitated to share. At the same time, her painting series “Empty Cells” depicts 10 political prisoners jailed under Hong Kong’s National Security Law. These paintings were once exhibited in a single cell for political prisoners at the Terezín Memorial in the Czech Republic in 2021.

Hong Kong artist Loretta Lau’s artwork “Dear Grandma” and painting series “Empty Cells.” Courtesy of Loretta Lau

These works, steeped in both personal pain and collective memory, illustrate the harsh realities faced by those living under repressive regimes.

“This is not just about me,” Lau said. “It’s the story of Hongkongers and so many others around the world who have been forced to flee because of political oppression.”

Lau also expressed concern about the chilling effect that the Chinese Communist Party’s political manipulation might have on the Hungarian art scene.

“If art is suppressed, how can we expect a more just society?” she said.

Her visit to Hungary’s House of Terror Museum highlighted disturbing similarities between Hungary’s communist past and the challenges facing Hong Kong today.

“We cannot allow the horrors of the past to be repeated. It’s everyone’s responsibility, not just politicians.” Lau said.

The exhibition also features works by six renowned Czech artists, aged between 60 and 80: Pavel Baňka, Jindra Viková, Kamila Ženatá, Pavel Opočenský, Jan Silar, and Marie Šeborová. Five of them traveled to Hungary to show their support for the exhibition.

“The similarities between Czechoslovakia’s ‘Normalization’ era and Hong Kong under the National Security Law are alarming. Those who have lived through these times can truly share their experiences and pass on their hopes to the next generation, especially those under oppression,” said Baňka, speaking on behalf of the group.

Czech photographer Pavel Baňka (L) and Hong Kong artist Loretta Lau. Courtesy of Loretta Lau

The exhibition opened on Nov. 26 and runs until Feb. 2, 2025, at the Godot Institute of Contemporary Art. Further information can be obtained at www.godot.hu/post/as-far-as-exile-loretta-lau