Cao Fei: Same Old, Brand New

Same Old, Brand New is a new work by the artist Cao Fei (b.1978, Beijing)– created especially for Hong Kong’s iconic ICC building – that references video games, primarily from the 1980s, which have become an integral part of popular and youth culture, especially in Hong Kong but also across the world. By combining symbols and logos with moving images derived from wellknown computer games including Pac-Man and Tetris on the full length of the skyscraper, the visual display will create a heightened visibility, thereby revealing further meanings.
With this video installation, Cao Fei attempts to turn collective memories into a current reality. The work follows previous multi-media projects by the artist that explore the dreams and aspirations of a younger Chinese generation and their strategies for overcoming and escaping reality. Known for her multimedia installations and videos, Cao Fei mixes social commentary, popular aesthetics, references to Surrealism, and a documentary approach, reflecting on the rapid and chaotic changes that are occurring in Chinese society today. Visible from numerous locations across Hong Kong, including the HKCEC, ‘Same Old, Brand New’ can be witnessed by people all over the city. Recommended public viewing places are the terrace on Podium 3 and 4 of the IFC Mall where an accompanying audio piece by Hong Kong sound artist Dickson Dee will be broadcast. Also influenced by the music of 1980s computer games, the sound work will be synchronized with Cao Fei’s visual installation.