The Peninsula Hong Kong Shines at "Art in Resonance" with Victoria & Albert Museum and Vogue100

In an extraordinary kickoff for Art Basel Hong Kong, The Peninsula Hotel recently hosted an opulent celebration for the upcoming 2025 edition of its renowned "Art in Resonance" program. Teaming up with the Victoria & Albert Museum and Vogue100, the hotel brought together influential figures from the art and fashion world for a night brimming with inspiration, creativity, and melodious vibes.

The centerpiece of the evening was Phoebe Hui’s spectacular installation, "Lunar Rainbow," which captivated entry guests with its ethereal charm. Standing as her largest work to date, this awe-inspiring installation comprises digitally printed aluminum panels featuring a vibrant collage of lunar imagery that ranges from 17th-century sketches to modern open-source photography. A meticulously designed lighting system simulates a moonbeam, inviting guests to reflect on the significance of lunar inspiration throughout history.

Guests flooded the historic lobby, arriving in a stunning fleet of vintage Rolls Royce Phantoms, where over 500 attendees mingled beneath the elegantly vaulted ceilings and intricate cornicing that have made The Peninsula a symbol of luxury and refinement in Asia. Known as the "Grande Dame of the Far East," The Peninsula stands proudly alongside esteemed establishments like The Plaza in New York, The Ritz in Paris, and Claridge’s in London.

Another show-stopping piece was Lin Fanglu’s "She Bestowed Love," using striking red textiles to invoke Gaia, the Greek goddess of the Earth. This work pulsated with energy and color, prompting attendees to pause and admire its visual grandeur.

Ascending the majestic double staircase revealed yet another artistic marvel—"The Flow Pavilion" by Chris Cheung, also known as h0nh1m. This innovative structure, resembling a contemporary tea house, featured intricate patterns drawn from his own brainwaves in a meditative state, offering a unique glimpse into the artist's creative process. Visitors were utterly engrossed in this immersive experience.

Officially launched in 2019 and co-founded by Bettina Prentice, "Art in Resonance" nurtures promising emerging artists with financial backing and curatorial assistance for the development of significant public artworks. This selection process has become a staple in Hong Kong's cultural scene, shining a spotlight on groundbreaking creative voices.

However, the evening held a backdrop of geopolitical tension, with issues arising between China, the UK, and the US leading up to the event. In a poignant address, Benjamin Vuchot, the newly appointed CEO of The Hongkong & Shanghai Hotels Limited—the entity behind The Peninsula Hotels—emphasized the program's relevance during tumultuous times.

“In a world often marked by division and chaos, art creates a communal experience,” stated Vuchot. “It energizes us, tantalizes our senses, and provides much-needed relief from our daily realities. The worlds of luxury hospitality and art complement one another beautifully, particularly during such times.”

Following the cocktail reception, a more intimate dinner took place at Felix, hosted by Leslie Sun, the Editorial Director for Vogue's Asia-Pacific Region, along with Dr. Melissa Buron. The restaurant, with its outstanding view of the skyline and avant-garde design by Philippe Starck, offered a sharp contrast to the traditional luxury prevalent in the lobby.

As the evening unfolded, Dr. Buron spoke about the legacy of cross-cultural collaboration that the event embodied. "The Victoria & Albert Museum has championed Chinese art since our founding in the 1850s. I’m delighted to announce that Lin Fanglu's new installation will join our collection, expanding our 2.2 million objects this fall,” she revealed, marking a significant acquisition.

Sun also acknowledged the evolution of Art Basel, originally established 55 years ago in Switzerland. "From Miami to Paris, and now here in Hong Kong, each edition reflects the spirit of its host city. Tonight, let the vibrant energy of Hong Kong inspire you,” she expressed passionately.

As the grand event neared its climax, guests were treated to a breathtaking performance by Royal Opera soprano Alexandra Lowe, who brought the audience to a standing ovation with her stunning finale. Among the glamorously adorned crowd—comprising icons like Kimberly Drew, Tina Leung, Ivan Pun, and Fumi Lee—laughter and conversation flowed well into the night, the twinkling lights of Victoria Harbor capturing their collective awe.

This evening not only celebrated artistry but also highlighted the power of cultural unity, reminding everyone present of art's timeless ability to bridge divides.