Hong Kong artist Gamzar is galvanised by working with iron and bamboo
The artist transforms contrasting materials into delicate sculptural installations, channelling design, craft and memories of the city’s industrial past
From the window, the building looks out onto another industrial block, car repair shops and clothes left on lines to dry in the sun. It’s a world away from the city’s glitzy centre. “It reflects how difficult it is to continue crafts in Hong Kong,” says Gamzar, 31, who prefers to go by one name.
His process is collaborative and slow. He begins digitally, modelling forms on his computer, a habit carried over from his parametric design training, then workshops ideas with Master Yu.
Gamzar’s work is characterised by a focus on volume and form, folding sheets of metal like origami masters fold paper. For his installation, Wave (2023), commissioned by the Crafts on Peel Foundation, he created massive fans that appear to float despite being made of iron.
“I wanted people to realise how light this material is,” he says. “Even though it’s metal, it’s delicate.”