Description +-
The first Lennon Wall appeared in Prague, Czechoslovakia, following John Lennon's murder in 1980. It was full of art, lyrics from the Beatles, and other messages relating to various global causes.
In Hong Kong, Lennon Wall first appeared during the Umbrella Movement in 2014. A Lennon Wall is created by protesters by pasting colourful Post-It notes, written or drawn with messages advocating for democracy, freedom, and other universal values. During the 2019–20 Hong Kong anti-Extradition protests, Lennon Walls reappeared in many locations across the city.
With the enactment of the National Security Law, the Lennon Wall and other forms of free speech have become history. This painting captures the strong sentiment mourning the loss of the physical space, which was insignificant compared to the loss of freedom suffered by Hongkongers.
Artist +-
Ricker Choi
“Art serves as a counter narrative to fight against authoritarian regime's attempt to rewrite history.” Ricker Choi.
Gentle, subdued, and impressionistic are the stylistic elements characterising Choi’s paintings. But underneath the soft and tender hues are strong emotional undercurrent, reflected by the symbols or moments the artist chose to capture on his canvases.
The subjects Choi depicts reflect the public sentiments on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. These are symbols that the protesters recognise as the key moments or elements of the movement. The collective recognition forms a supportive bond and mutual understanding among the protesters that need not be spelled out. These moments of emotional intimacy represent the currents of warmth and humanity that is the lasting hope in dire humanitarian situations unfolding in the city.
Choi immigrated to Canada from Hong Kong in 1980’s. Seeing the political upheaval in Hong Kong, he decided to use art to honour the bravery and fight for freedom, getting inspirations from observing specific incidents. He has been using art to raise money for organisations helping Hong Kong’s fight for freedom, and is widely recognised in the community. His story has been featured in Apple Daily - the now closed independent news outlet in Hong Kong.
Donation +-
Based on our agreement with the artist, 70% of the pre-VAT price excluding frames will be donated to support the social movement. Donation will be made to Banyan Tree Aid.