Patrick Sun’s Philosophy for Art Collection: A Deep Dive
Patrick Sun, a Hong Kong-born art collector, has been a prominent figure in the promotion of queer art in Asia for over 35 years. Through his Sunpride Foundation, he has curated LGBTQ+ themed exhibitions at various museums across Asia, showcasing works by artists such as Bhupen Khakhar, David Medalla, Sin Wai Kin, and Samson Young. In addition to his role as a patron of the arts, Sun is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
One of Sun’s recent acquisitions includes Alvin Ong’s “Dumpling” (2023), a piece featured in a group exhibition at Yavuz Gallery in Singapore celebrating the repeal of a colonial law criminalizing same-sex relations.
Sun’s foundation makes quick decisions when acquiring art, often collecting for exhibition purposes rather than personal preference. Among his favorite works is a piece by Robert Rauschenberg depicting a split peach and the Chinese character for “truth,” symbolizing queer love in China.
Reflecting on missed opportunities, Sun regrets not acquiring works by photographer Ren Hang before his untimely passing in 2017. This experience underscores the importance of preserving LGBTQ+ legacies for future generations.
Looking ahead to Art Basel in Hong Kong, Sun is eager to explore the Encounters section, which features large-scale works suitable for museum collections. He recommends visitors to Hong Kong venture beyond the tourist areas to experience the city’s diverse culture and culinary offerings.
When in Hong Kong, Sun enjoys dining at establishments like WING and Yat Lok for authentic local cuisine, while savoring cocktails with stunning views at Argo and Carlyle & Co. Despite his love for art fairs, Sun finds the food offerings lacking compared to the bustling art scene.
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Cillian O’Rourke, studied at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin, Ireland, where he majored in Visual Communication. His work spans graphic design, illustration, and branding, with a distinct minimalist style that emphasizes simplicity and impact. Cillian has collaborated with international brands and runs his own design studio focusing on creative solutions for startups.