Interview Gallerist Pearl Lam
Lam’s influence reaches far beyond her gallery walls. Through The Pearl Lam Podcast, she engages with thought leaders and creatives, amplifying voices that exude authenticity and conviction. Her dedication to fostering dialogue and championing innovation has cemented her as a global cultural force. Her forward thinking approaches often see her engage with new technologies whilst championing human connection and artistic sensibility.
On the week coinciding with Chinese New Year we caught up with Pearl as she prepares to unveil an exciting solo exhibition at her Hong Kong gallery and continues to lead the way in redefining art on a global stage.
THE WICK: Talk us through a typical Monday.
Pearl Lam: A typical Monday for me starts with a peaceful morning routine. I begin the day with chanting and meditation, which helps me centre myself and set a positive tone for the week ahead. After this calming ritual, I dive into reading the news. I enjoy catching up on the latest articles from The Financial Times and The New York Times. This combination of mindfulness and staying informed prepares me for the challenges and opportunities the week may bring.
TW: You began as a Patron and Collector before founding Pearl Lam Galleries in 2005. How did a collector mentality help you in building a leading global gallery?
PL:
A collector mentality gave me a deep understanding of the broader cultural and artistic landscape, which was instrumental in shaping Pearl Lam Galleries. Collecting isn’t just about acquiring; it’s about appreciating diverse perspectives and seeing how different forms of art—fine art, design, and craft—can coexist and challenge established hierarchies.
The gallery was founded to disrupt the traditional Western hierarchy of art forms, embracing a multidisciplinary approach that reflects the Chinese art philosophy, where there is no rigid division between fine art, decorative art, and design. This ethos of cultural dialogue became the foundation of the gallery.
In our early days, we were deeply involved in design. In 2005, we launched a design gallery in Shanghai before opening the fine art gallery in 2006. We invited international designers to create in China, using local crafts to express their interpretations of Chinese culture. Simultaneously, we worked with Chinese artists who represented diverse perspectives beyond the dominant trend of political pop art. This dual focus—fine art and design—allowed us to foster meaningful cultural exchanges, redefine perceptions of Chinese art, and establish the gallery as a platform for multidisciplinary and cross-cultural dialogue.
TW: As someone who has questioned Chinese artists focusing on ancient subjects instead of contemporary issues, which Chinese contemporary artists are currently on your radar?
CR:
Su Xiaobai is a remarkable artist whose journey reflects a profound evolution. He began at 16 in Wuhan’s School of Arts and Crafts, then studied at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, where social realism shaped his early work. Later, a scholarship took him to the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf, where studying under Gerhard Richter transformed his perspective.
After returning to China in 2003, he discovered the rich tradition of lacquer, which he views not just as a material but as a dynamic pigment that adds depth and fluidity to his art. His work, which draws parallels to the Dansaekhwa movement, uniquely blends lacquer, abstraction, and Chinese craftsmanship. I’m thrilled to showcase his solo exhibition at Pearl Lam Galleries in Hong Kong this March, where his integration of cultural heritage and modernism will resonate deeply.
For me, this reflects a larger philosophy. Chinese artists are not defined solely by being ‘Chinese.’ Unlike modernism in the West, which often severs ties with the past, many Chinese artists evolve from their traditions. Philosophies like Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism remain central to Chinese identity and art, connecting us to a lineage that inspires contemporary creativity. This connection to heritage is not about being ‘Asian’ but about how we honour and build upon the essence of who we are.
TW: You have previously said that you did not aspire to open a physical gallery as you “didn’t like the idea of working in the same single space from morning until night.” How do you continue to keep your gallery a dynamic and innovative space?
PL:
I always aim to keep the gallery dynamic and innovative by focusing on its role as a platform that goes beyond a traditional static space. Through rotating exhibitions, carefully curated programming, and collaborations with diverse artists and brands, we maintain a fresh and engaging environment. The goal is to create and facilitate meaningful discussions about art. I believe contemporary art goes beyond geographical boundaries and should not be restricted to a passport, so we work to represent artists in a globalised manner instead of limiting them to regional identities.
My gallery focuses on curating exhibitions that highlight diverse perspectives, styles, and subjects. We aim to engage audiences from various cultural backgrounds and share the stories of the artists we believe in. Recently, we’ve showcased works by global artists from China, Nigeria, Slovakia, the UK, the USA, and beyond. We aim to create a space where tradition and innovation coexist, giving visitors the freedom to engage with art in the way that resonates most with them.
“We aim to engage audiences from various cultural backgrounds and share the stories of the artists we believe in.”
TW: In an increasingly digital era, why do you think art fairs, gallery visits, and art world get-togethers remain important?
PL:
Art fairs, gallery visits, and art world gatherings remain crucial in a digital era because they provide something technology can’t—personal connections and meaningful, in-person experiences. These events bring people together, offering the chance to engage directly with art, meet artists, and connect with others who share a passion for creativity. Rather than replacing traditional approaches with technology, it can be used to enhance them, breaking physical barriers to improve accessibility and engagement.
The new generation enjoys the convenience of accessing art online, but nothing compares to seeing works in person, where scale, texture, and atmosphere come alive. Art fairs also help build trust and visibility for galleries, artists, and collectors, all while boosting local economies. In a world dominated by screens, these moments of human connection and inspiration make art fairs irreplaceable.
TW: We’re increasingly seeing brands and businesses align with the art world in fluid and sensitive ways. Which brand do you think is doing its best?
PL: It’s hard to pinpoint a specific brand, but I’ve been noticing a growing trend in how our artists are forming exciting and meaningful collaborations. One of the standout collaborations from the past year has been with the London restaurant Sketch. Through our collaboration with Sketch, we’ve had the opportunity to bring artists from around the world to one of London’s most influential arts and cultural hubs. This partnership has allowed us to showcase the works of global talents like Nigerian artist Alimi Adewale, Chinese artist Danful Yang, British artist Mr Doodle, and most recently, Paris-based Slovakian artist Michal Korman.
TW: You launched your business on your own and have transformed it into a thriving global gallery. What advice would you share with female entrepreneurs at the start of their journey?
PL:
The best advice I can offer is to make connections and form lasting relationships. Connections have always been at the heart of my world. Meeting people, forming genuine relationships, and learning from others has been vital. I have held dinners for many years that bring together some wonderful and like-minded people. I’m actually about to start hosting several dinners for Chinese New Year, where I bring together people from all parts of my life to dine together and celebrate. For me, the gallery is more than just a space to showcase art; it’s a platform to create meaningful connections.
Whether it’s connecting artists with curators, collectors with creators, or fostering dialogue between the East and the West, the goal is always to bridge worlds and build lasting relationships that inspire and empower.
TW: Your podcast, The Pearl Lam Podcast, highlights voices who demonstrate a commitment to following their own convictions. Who would you most like to interview and why?
PL:
I would love to interview someone from the fashion industry, someone like John Galliano or Jean Paul Gaultier. Both are iconic figures, known for their strong, bold personalities. They’ve stayed true to their own convictions, refusing to conform to the pressures of the industry.
I also enjoy speaking with chefs. In my first season, I spoke to Stéphanie Le Quellec, and now I’m preparing to interview Danish chef Eric Vildgaard. Food is such a dynamic space, and I believe there’s so much potential to disrupt the culinary world. Chefs are incredibly talented and creative. My podcast is all about elevating voices that challenge the norm and go against the grain, much like I do in my own work. It’s about celebrating those who dare to think differently and remain committed to their individuality, no matter what.
TW: As someone with an Eastern sensibility, what drives you?
PL:
I am driven by a profound appreciation for harmony, balance, and interconnectedness, drawing from Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism. This perspective instils a sense of responsibility toward collective well-being, prioritising community over individual gain. Inspired by nature and simplicity, I embrace mindfulness and develop a deeper appreciation for life’s subtleties. My pursuit of spiritual growth and wisdom is intricately linked to my cultural heritage, which emphasises respect, humility, and compassion.
Also, I am deeply committed to addressing Western-centric narratives in the art world, where diverse artistic practices and cultural voices from non-Western regions have often been overlooked. My focus is on fostering opportunities and dialogues that bridge the gap between East and West, amplifying artists from varied cultural backgrounds to enrich and diversify the global discourse. Art, as a form of soft power, possesses the unique ability to transcend borders and shape culture.
TW: You are known for your incredible fashion sense. What will be your label of choice for Hong Kong Basel?
PL: My go-to labels are usually Alexander McQueen and Sacai. I love being disruptive with fashion—I can’t stand what’s trending. I’ve said before that I’ll wear labels such as Dior, unless everyone else is wearing it, depending on the season. I have a special place for Asian designers like We11Done Fashion and Ms. Min, who’s a dear friend of mine. I often also rely on feng shui to help me create a balanced, harmonious closet.
