ART | ‘Valkyrie Octopus’ makes its debut

The opening ceremony of well-known Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos’ solo exhibition was held yesterday afternoon at MGM Macau, with the city’s high-­ranking officials and the corporation’s top management attending the event.
The Portuguese artist expressed her gratitude in her opening address to MGM for its support and trust, as well as the opportunity to create and showcase her art piece, which is the biggest of all her previous artworks.
Her latest creation, “Valkyrie Octopus,” which is on display at the resort’s Grande Praça from today through to October 31, reflects on the city’s integral role in the 500-year history of trade between China, Portugal and the rest of the world.
Pansy Ho, MGM’s co-chairperson and executive director, said in her opening address: “This will help to further develop the local arts scene in Macau and deepen the historical and cultural influence of Macau, as well as building bridges between nations and cities to foster greater understanding, trust and respect in everyone.”
The inspiration for the acclaimed contemporary artist’s giant artwork came from the special design of the huge aquarium that stands at MGM’s Grande Praça, with elements of the ocean and voyages infused. The artist combined artisanal techniques such as crochet and Nisa embroidery, which are mainly from the Portuguese region of Alto Alentejo, in devising the art piece.
The event’s guests included the Chief Executive, Chui Sai On, and his predecessor, Edmund Ho. Staff reporter