A Visionary Project

In a remarkable fusion of sport and art, photographer Austin Bell has taken his viewers on an exhilarating journey through Hong Kong's captivating landscape, focusing on its unique outdoor basketball courts. Since his first visit in 2017, Bell has been enchanted by the vibrant courts that offer a striking contrast to the drab asphalt surfaces common in America. His fascination grew into an ambitious mission when he returned in 2019, aiming to photograph all 2,549 basketball courts scattered across the city.

The Exhibition and Book Release

This innovative project, aptly titled "Shooting Hoops," is the centerpiece of a newly released photo book and exhibition at the esteemed Blue Lotus Gallery. The collection chronicles Bell's meticulous exploration of Hong Kong's urban environment, capturing the charm and character of each court amidst the city's soaring skyscrapers. Each photograph serves as a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of Hong Kong's communities, showcasing the diverse settings where basketball thrives despite the city's limited space.

A Cultural Exploration

What makes Bell's project even more intriguing is his focus on “sports surfaces” as a means to delve deeper into urban culture. To his surprise, he discovered that Hong Kong boasts the highest number of outdoor basketball courts of any city in the world, a fact that reveals an unexpected aspect of the city’s vibrant cultural fabric.

Dedication to the Craft

During his two-year endeavor, Bell amassed an astounding 40,000 photographs. In a particularly grueling session, he managed to capture 475 unique courts in a single day, showcasing not only his dedication but also the city's rich basketball culture. "My obsession was fueled by two desires: to show an unseen perspective of Hong Kong and to fully explore a city that I feel so captivated by," he expressed, emphasizing his deep appreciation for the locale.

Availability and Future Display

The "Shooting Hoops" book is now available for pre-order at $49 USD on Bell's official website, making it a must-have for both photography enthusiasts and basketball fans alike. The accompanying exhibition will be showcased in Hong Kong from January 17 to February 23, 2025, promising a visual feast that highlights the intersection of sport and urban life.

A New Perspective on Urban Life

As Bell’s project unfolds, it emphasizes not just the love of basketball but also the spirit of community and creativity that thrives in the heart of one of the world's most dynamic cities. Don’t miss out on experiencing "Shooting Hoops," a project that is set to change the way we see sports and urban life combined!