Art is not for the privileged few: Jay Chou and Evelyn Lin on art appreciation and collecting

Globally renowned as a Mandopop singer-songwriter, record producer, actor, and also an avid art collector – Jay Chou’s passion for art collecting and appreciation for new and cutting-edge talents inspired this collaboration which will further support the young and emerging artists worldwide.

EL: As a musician, how did you start collecting art? What do you think about the fusion of music and art?

JC: I saw a painting of toys at a flea market in France, and wanted to get it for my children. This was my first encounter with art. Since then, I have embarked upon an enriching journey of collecting art.

As a music video director, I believe that music and art are closely linked. I always have a picture in mind when I am writing a song and I want to recreate that picture through my music. I put some of my collection behind the piano to resonate with those who find a connection. In my new music video, there is an artwork hanging on the wall while I sit on the sofa eating popcorn. I tried to create a scene closer to life. After all, art should be integrated into our lives.

The composition and colours of the work by Ghenie, for example, reflect the artist’s intense emotional storm and creative passion.

EL: The lyrics of your song Greatest Works of Art makes reference to many artists. What inspired you to incorporate these works into your creation?

JC: I put everything from surrealism, impressionist artists to the Asian artists and writers active in France at that time in the music video to reflect the imaginative nature of this song. I want to arouse the interest of those who are not so into art.

EL: You have a global appeal, particularly amongst the younger generation. What message do you want to convey through this partnership with Christie’s?

JC: I think these young artists deserve a stage for them to be seen and show their gift. I also encourage people to explore the story behind every piece of artwork. Learning to appreciate art is the first step to establishing a connection with it.

The works of art selected for this auction are avant-garde pieces completed after 2000, the year when I released my first album. The lots offered are the most representative works of the artists, and they definitely embody rich and diverse contemporary cultural values. I want to inspire the audience to experience them in depth and find the resonation.

Evelyn commented: 'This painting by Loie Hollowell behind Jay portrays the female body abstractly, with a distinctive autobiographical style. It depicts the unique physical changes experienced by a woman, from pregnancy, to giving birth and breastfeeding, by transforming her body into simple geometric forms, resulting in an exceptional piece that records the extraordinary journey of being a mother. This work was created by the artist just after she had given birth to her second child.'

‘Curating an exhibition is like planning a concert. The works and songs chosen must resonate with the audience,’ said the superstar with a smile. It is his belief that music and paintings are similar in the fact that there are numerous styles and nuances. While the creators do not have a standard answer, it is crucial for the audience to interpret the artwork in their own way. ‘Similarly, my songs will evoke memories that only belong to you.’

The creative approaches and ways of expression adopted by the millennial artists are quite different. In the modern, globalised world, words may not be the most effective way of expression for this era. Communicating with images can overcome language barriers and connect many in a powerful way. For instance, Jadé Fadojutimi’s Turmoil expresses her thoughts and observation of the world around her with vibrant colours. She was inspired by anime, Japanese subculture, Korean dramas, video games and movie soundtracks. This approach is also an important feature of post-millennial works, which bring together different cultures and influences from all over the world, underlining the artists’ global vision and exceptional creativity.

Chou curates this season’s Post-Millennium Evening Sale and and believes that it is the best stage for the emerging artists. ‘I hope that this stage can allow everyone to experience the beauty of art, and to ignite their interest and encourage their engagement in art.’

‘Not everyone is born a master, and renowned masters of art had withstood the test of time. I hope that the creations of these emerging artists will become masterpieces someday.’ His profound insight perfectly summarises the aim of the Post-Millennium Evening Sale.

Post-Millennium Evening Sale, a Collab with Jay Chou is a partnership with ENVISEAM uniting the world of fine art and entertainment.