What initial concerns did Tang have about exhibiting in Macao?

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Initial Concerns of Artist Tang Mun Kian Regarding Macao Exhibition

Tang Mun Kian initially expressed surprise at being selected by the Galaxy Entertainment Group Foundation (GEG Foundation) for a large-scale curated exhibition of contemporary art in Macao. His primary concerns stemmed from a perceived mismatch between his artistic style and the exhibition's expectations. He worried that his works, characterized by their site-specific nature and subtlety, might lack the grandeur or spectacle typically associated with an event like Art Macao 2021. Furthermore, his limited familiarity with Macao, confined to iconic landmarks like egg tarts and the Ruins of St. Paul's, added to his apprehension about creating art relevant to the locale.
Doubt Over Suitability of Artistic Style

Tang harboured doubts about whether his artistic output was appropriate for the Art Macao 2021 exhibition. He felt his sculptures, particularly those from the "Marking George Town" series, were deeply tied to their specific environments and possessed a subtlety that might not resonate in a grand, curated international biennale. This concern was amplified by his initial perception that his work did not inherently possess the "spectacle feel" that he assumed would be a prerequisite for such a prominent exhibition.
Limited Knowledge of Macao

A significant source of Tang's initial worry was his own limited understanding of Macao. Prior to the commission, his knowledge of the city was superficial, primarily limited to its famous culinary exports and a single historical monument. This lack of deeper insight into Macao's culture, history, and urban fabric made him question his ability to produce a body of work that could authentically engage with and reflect the unique context of the exhibition's location.
Surprise at Selection

The selection itself was a point of surprise for Tang. He found it difficult to comprehend why GEG Foundation would approach Sculptureatwork, under his art direction, for a significant role in a curated contemporary art exhibition. This surprise underscored his self-doubt regarding the perceived suitability of his artistic practice for the scale and nature of the Art Macao 2021 event, leading him to question the foundation's rationale behind the invitation.

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What initial concerns did Tang have about exhibiting in Macao?

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