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This volume presents the artistic work of Chun Wai created in France in the 1980s–1990s. Like the exhibition Adrift in Time—Photography by Chun Wai at the University Museum and Art Gallery, The University of Hong Kong, the publication has documentary value as a photographic record of the past and the passing of time.

This physical and philosophical journey caused the artist to realize that his insights into the relationship suspended between predestination and chance were leading to an expansive form of loneliness—a state he felt was similar to the torment experienced by the ancient Chinese poets. Chun wandered the streets and alleys of great cultural centres like Paris discovering the collections of its great museums, art galleries and flea markets, along with the vast memories contained within, preserved and passed on through the course of time.

Chun Wai is an independent artist. Born in Hong Kong and educated in France, he worked in journalism before he became a full-time photographer and curator.

Florian Knothe is an Associate Professor and director of the University Museum at HKU. He works on early modern European, Chinese and cross-cultural art.