“The Other Side of the Sea” marks Jiaxi Han’s first solo exhibition in Hong Kong. The artist explores the historical and cultural narratives woven into patterns, bridging Eastern and Western cultures through contemporary expression. Rooted in her heritage as a member of an ethnic minority in Southwest China, she carries forward the traditional craft of batik—an intangible cultural heritage—to reinterpret motifs from Swiss textiles, Hong Kong’s characteristic architectural ornamentation, and global trade histories. Her work uncovers the overlooked connections between craftsmanship, migration, and colonial legacies, revealing how patterns serve as silent witnesses to cultural exchange. From hand-drawn batik textiles reflecting Miao women’s labor to fabrics inspired by Swiss paisley designs once exported to Asia, each piece carries layered stories of tradition, adaptation, and reinvention. By merging the traditional technique of batik and indigo dyeing with contemporary themes, the exhibition invites viewers to see patterns not merely as decoration but as living archives of history, identity, and shared human experience.

Opening Reception: March 11, 2025 17:00 - 20:00

Venue address: Anita Chan Lai-ling Gallery, Fringe Club