“Serendipper,” Novo’s first exhibition in Hong Kong, is a collection of his still life and interior scenes.

“Serendipper” referring to “one who finds joy by chance,” presents unexpected encounters with a charming scene in an unfamiliar place, or an object that has been waiting for you in a huge vintage market that you need a whole day to explore all. Even a tin case or glasses on your desk that you see every day sometimes evoke some intense emotions. Novo loves the joy and excitement of these serendipitous discoveries. In most cases, the discovery feels surprising, but on second thought those situations are something so common that we often miss them. So the artist focuses on expressing his own universe rather than depicting the external world, and develops himself by closely paying attention to the psychology of his happy moments.

Novo, who unflinchingly spotlights his life through works across diverse genres, grew up in a homogenized and controlled society, which made him thirsty for diversity, and has since been inspired by objects that speak to him. Novo's work consistently expresses his outlook on life in pursuit of happiness. The artist, for example, constantly explores and depicts his favorite objects, plants that grow freely, and feelings of joy and excitement. He says it would be meaningless to delve into the artist's intentions, as he just wanted to express emotions and feelings through his work.

Opening reception: 30.11, 6-8pm

Gallery address: Unit C, 12/F, Gee Chang Hong Centre, 65 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Wong Chuk Hang